Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act of 2026

Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act of 2026 This bill requires the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) to develop frameworks to manage regional populations of double-crested cormorants (a type of waterbird native to North America). Specifically, FWS must coordinate with the four Regional Flyway Councils to develop regional management frameworks for double-crested cormorants. Among other elements, each framework must (1) ensure the breeding population is managed at a sufficient level to ensure conservation, (2) include parameters regarding the taking (e.g., capturing or hunting) of double-crested cormorants, and (3) consider any documented effects of double-crested cormorants in the region (e.g., impacts on fisheries). In developing each framework, FWS must also work with state and tribal game and fish agencies and the applicable Regional Flyway Council to make recommendations for managing double-crested cormorants within the National Wildlife Refuge System. FWS must coordinate with the Regional Flyway Councils every five years to survey the population of double-crested cormorants. Additionally, each framework must be reviewed and updated every five years, incorporating results of the most recent population survey. FWS must also report to Congress on the feasibility of issuing hunting licenses to manage double-crested cormorants in accordance with the frameworks. The requirements of this bill terminate on January 1, 2034.