What can you tell me about the Endangered Species act?

Question

anything on it is greatly appreciated :)

Answer 1

The U.S. FWS and NOAA are responsible for implementation of the Endangered Species Act.   Both agencies have useful information on their sites.  The U.S. FWS site is http://www.fws.gov/endangered/

With respect to queenie's response, consultations are actually required for any action that "may affect" an endangered or threatened species.  That effect may be either harmful or beneficial to the species.  I work for a Federal agency and part of my job is performing ESA consultations with FWS.  Additionally, the ESA covers alot more than just consultations, such as how species become listed, prhobited acts against species, permits for take, etc.

Answer 2

This monumental and groundbreaking legislation was signed into law by President Nixon in December of 1973. The endangered Species Act (or ESA) finally enabled federal agencies like NOAA and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to enforce the protection of threatened species. Further, the ESA gave these bodies the power to protect vitally important habitat; develop and implement sweeping conservation programs; and carry out restoration programs.

The act also has provisions to allow citizens and NGOs the ability to seek civil litigation (or redress) to help protect the tenants of the ESA. The most infamous of these efforts was the halt of logging in the coniferous forests of the Pacific Northwest -- to help save the spotted owl.

Additional provisions within the ESA allow for stiff fines and penalties for those found violating the act. This is what gave the ESA real teeth and the ability to be realistically enforced.

The current "administration" has repeatedly tried to undermine the ESA -- more so then any other predecessor. Fortunately a growing ground swell of support for the ESA and a renewed interest in conservation has halted the majority of their efforts.

Answer 3

The Act was created in 1973 under republican president Nixon.  It aims to protect all endangered species and the ecosystems on which they depend.  

It requires biological consultations for any actions (federal or private) that may harm or threaten species.