Fish Habitat Partnerships – the primary work units of the National Fish Habitat Action Plan – were conceived as a means to involve diverse groups of public and private partners; engage the grassroots in fish habitat conservation; collaboratively develop a compelling vision; leverage different sources of funding and support through local and regional partnerships; and collectively assimilate and interpret the best available science on key geographic areas and fish habitats.  Since 2006, a network of 18 Fish Habitat Partnerships has developed to include all 50 States, engaging thousands of partners in on-the-ground projects and scientific assessments that support strategic conservation of fish habitats.  Speakers in this symposium will present case studies showing how building relationships within and among the Partnerships has advanced science on multiple scales; leveraged available funding; and engaged crucial non-traditional partners, including businesses, landowners, and local communities for the benefit of aquatic habitats and sustainable fisheries.  Speakers will also explore the future potential of relationships to address unmet and emerging needs, such as quantifying socio-economic benefits of healthy fish habitats; developing financial mechanisms linked to ecosystem services; and fostering a broad understanding and support for healthy fish habitats as a component of healthy human communities.