Challenges with monitoring human activities
Explain why the Endangered Species Act (ESA) was created to promote conservation of plants and animals. Explain how it helps prevent the extinction of endangered and threatened species.
Discuss some challenges with monitoring human activities affecting species populations and enforcing the ESA.
Sample Solution
The Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) was created to protect animals and plants that were in danger of becoming extinct. “Nothing is more priceless and more worthy of preservation than the rich array of animal life with which our country has been blessed,” said President Richard Nixon while signing the act on December 28, 1973. Endangered means a species is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. The act prohibits harming or killing endangered species; bans the import and export of endangered species; requires protection for land and water vital to species recovery (critical habitat areas); and necessitates the development and implementation of recovery plans for listed species.