1. The Endangered Species Act 1973, 1982, 1985, 1988 (ESA) By Anais Teyton Function: Promotes the conservation of the listed endangered and threatened worldwide species. Protects these species by creating penalties against those who harm them as well as makes protected land for these animals with government support. Increase awareness of wildlife and protect species from extinction by removing peril. Environmental Issues Affected: Although some individuals disagree with this act and its amendments, the ESA allows for the protection of endangered and threatened species as well as their protection against humans and activity in addition to retaining our planet’s biodiversity.

2. The Endangered Species Act  Drafted on December 28, 1973 by President Nixon  Has both national and international protected species lists.  Amendments:  1978: Gave flexibility to the ESA, which defined penalties & critical habitat.  1982: Signed by Ronald Reagan, it excluded economic factors from determining the status of a species (purely biological considerations by adding the word “solely”).  1985: It was created to protect migratory birds as well as plants in order to identify them and implement certain tasks that would increase helpful programs for their safety.  1988: Made monitoring candidate and recovered species necessary, reformed recovery plans, included section 18 (all expenditures for species/ recovery funds must be reported), and protected plants from destruction.

3. Agencies  These agencies make sure that the Endangered Species Act is well-implemented and have the responsibility of taking care of these species. NOAA -The National Marine Fisheries Service manages both marine as well as anadromous species that live in the ocean and reproduce in fresh waters. U.S. FWS -The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service helps to protect and manage land and freshwater species.