Per G.S. 113-335, the Nongame Wildlife Advisory Committee (NWAC or Committee) is to be “composed of knowledgeable and representative citizens of North Carolina whose responsibility shall be to advise the Commission on matters related to conservation of nongame wildlife species in the state”. Additionally, the powers and duties of the NWAC are listed in G.S. 113-336. The NWAC was established through resolution by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC or Commission) on July 14, 1986. This resolution was revised and reaffirmed in 2014 by vote of the Habitat, Nongame and Endangered Species Commission Committee (HNGES). WRC’s resolution enumerates several functions of the NWAC.
The NWAC has no rule-making authority but is regularly requested to provide input and recommendations to the WRC regarding the conservation of nongame wildlife species and their habitats. Authority for enacting rules regarding protected animals or other matters rests with the WRC, pursuant to provisions of the Administrative Procedures Act (G.S. 150B). Furthermore, the NWAC promotes collaboration between WRC and the academic community.