Endangered Species Act

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 protects plant and animal species that are either facing extinction or are likely to face extinction in the foreseeable future and protects the ecosystems upon which they depend. It includes provisions for listing species that need protection, designating habitat deemed critical to a species' survival, developing recovery plans, and protecting species against harm. Over the last 10 years, the auditor has reported on many of the major program areas of the ESA -- listing, critical habitat, recovery, and the consultation process by which fed. agencies ensure that their actions do not cause harm to listed species. This report discusses recommend. that have and have not been implemented. Charts and tables.