Q: What happens if there are federally endangered species in my project area?
A: In 1973, Congress passed the U.S. Endangered Species Act in an effort to prevent the extinction of native and foreign animals and plants. With some exceptions, the Act prohibits activities affecting these protected species unless authorized by a permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the National Marine Fisheries Service.
The activities authorized by permits differ depending if the species is listed as endangered or threatened. An “endangered species” is any animal or plant that is in danger of extinction. A “threatened species” is any animal or plant that is likely to become endangered in the near future.
For endangered species, permits may be issued for scientific research, enhancement of propagation or survival of the species, including conservation education, and taking that is incidental to an otherwise lawful activity.
For threatened species, permits also may be issued for zoological, horticultural, or botanical exhibition; educational use; and special purposes consistent with the Act.
