Endangered Species Act Basics: 50 Years of Conserving Endangered Species

When Congress passed the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in 1973, it recognized that our rich natural heritage is of “esthetic, ecological, educational, recreational, and scientific value to our Nation and its people.” It further expressed concern that many of our nation’s native plants and animals were in danger of becoming extinct.

This document provides information on implementation of the ESA, and the tools in place that help us work with our diverse network of partners to deliver meaningful conservation.