On September 10, Department of Interior (DOI) Secretary Ryan Zinke issued a memorandum reaffirming the authority of the states to exercise their broad trustee and police powers as stewards of the Nation’s fish and wildlife species on public lands and waters under the jurisdiction of the Department. In announcing the memorandum at the annual meeting of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, DOI Deputy Assistant Secretary, Aurelia Skipwith, said the memorandum is intended to clarify the relationship between the states and the DOI bureaus and offices, to strengthen joint state-federal conservation partnership, and enhance the public’s opportunities to enjoy the benefits of the Nation’s fish and wildlife.