Endangered Species

Definition – Endangered – In danger of extinction throughout all or most of their natural habitat.

Definitions Threatened – Likely to become endangered in the near future.

Endangered Species Act (ESA) Passed in 1973 Protects all types of species (plant, animal, etc.) Requires states to maintain listings of threatened/endangered species Prevents federal agencies from funding or permitting any action that would harm a listed species or its habitat. Requires agencies to consult biologists on any action that “may affect” listed species. Penalties for violations

Important Changes to the ESA 1982 – Economic impact was not allowed to be considered when deciding whether to list a species. 1988 – States had to give accounts of how federal dollars were spent. 2004 – Department of Defense is not required to follow habitat protection rules as long as there is a plan for reducing impact in place.