Wildlife Law

Since 1990 the Institute of Public Law's (IPL) Center for Wildlife Law (CWL) has provided expertise in wildlife and biodiversity law and policy, including training, youth education, facilitation, legislation, research, teaching and publication. Our staff has over three decades of combined experience in analysis and creative education in state, federal and international law and policy.

Examples of activities include environmental impact statements, training of fish and wildlife biologists and resource managers in Natural Resources Law, working with state and federal agencies on legislation, partnering with other organizations on projects, and facilitating conferences and summits.

Wildlife Law Projects

Federal Wildlife Laws Handbook
CWL published the Federal Wildlife and Related Laws Handbook in 1998. It is a comprehensive review of federal wildlife and fisheries legislation and treaties, including related laws pertaining to public lands, forests, marine areas and environmental protection of air, water and habitat.
Visit the Federal Wildlife Laws Handbook Website
Wild Friends
IPL manages the Center for Wildlife Law Wild Friends program, which teaches students about the legislative process. Young people in grades 4-12 in schools around New Mexico vote by ballot to choose an issue of interest, learn about that topic and lawmaking, and draft a real memorial or bill. During the legislative session, students travel to the State Capitol to testify on behalf of their legislation.
Visit the Wild Friends Website
Wild Friends
IPL manages the Center for Wildlife Law Wild Friends program, which teaches students about the legislative process. Young people in grades 4-12 in schools around New Mexico vote by ballot to choose an issue of interest, learn about that topic and lawmaking, and draft a real memorial or bill. During the legislative session, students travel to the State Capitol to testify on behalf of their legislation.
Visit the Wild Friends Website
Wildlife Law News Quarterly
The Wildlife Law News Quarterly has been in publication since 1993, providing summaries of the latest state, federal and international developments in wildlife case law, attorney general opinions, and important regulations and legislation. The Wildlife Law News Weekly Alerts provide news of the very latest developments in wildlife law and policy to a weekly subscriber listserv.
Visit the Wildlife Law News Quarterly Website
Wildlife Law Reports
In addition to newsletters, the CWL has co-produced reports such as:

• "State Endangered Species Acts: Past, Present and Future"
• "New Mexico's Natural Heritage Report: Recommendations on Steps Toward a Comprehensive Biodiversity Conservation Strategy"
• "Saving Biodiversity: A Status Report on State Laws, Policies and Programs."