The purpose of the cooperative fishery and wildlife units, as stated by Congress, is "to facilitate cooperation between the Federal Government, colleges and universities, the States, and private organizations for cooperative unit programs of research and education relating to fish and wildlife and for other purposes." This paper describes only the fishery phase of the program which is now getting underway. The training of fishery biologists for professional employment is considered the primary objective at this stage. The conduct of research is also recognized as having high importance. Limited attention is given to extension-type programs involving preparation of literature, short courses in fishery methods, preparation of exhibits and demonstrations. Each fishery unit is a cooperative venture involving the Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife, a university, and usually a State fish and game department. A coordinating committee, representing the participating agencies, gives general guidance to each unit by reviewing annual budgets and proposals for research studies. The Bureau pays the salaries and expenses of a leader and assistant leader and supplies limited funds for employment of students and for graduate research projects. The university provides housing, office and laboratory space, utilities, access to libraries, other special facilities, and stenographic services. The State fish and game department makes its facilities available wherever feasible and contributes a stated amount of money to the university. These things are spelled out in a cooperative agreement. The Bureau plans a total of approximately 15 units for the United States. As of the date of this report, funds have been provided for seven of these.
