In 1973, President Richard Nixon suggested that conservation efforts should take place to ensure longevity of endangered animal species. In turn, the Endangered Species Act of 1973 was signed into effect. All these years later, it still takes enforcement of this vital act from a combination of different groups to species.
Protection on Land and in the Sea
Endangered species are protected whether they walk on land, fly or swim in water.
One of the agencies that administers the act is the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), a conservation portion of the Department of the Interior. FWS is the primary enforcement agency for this act.
Another agency is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA), which works to protect endangered marine species.
Role of the Secretary of State
The Secretary of State plays an important role in the management of the Endangered Species Act. The secretary is the one who determines which species need to be placed on the list and be covered by the act. If an endangered species is harmed by an individual, the Secretary of State can work closely with the Attorney General if a civil action is required against the individual who caused harm to the species.
Secretary of the Treasury--A Financial Role
There is a financial component to the Endangered Species Act. The Secretary of the Treasury fills this role. The secretary ensures that proper protocol is followed for lawful entry and importation when transporting an endangered species into a port. Should there be violations, the perpetrator can face fines and even imprisonment for violating the act. The Secretary of the Treasury pays rewards to those who provide information leading to the arrest of violators of the act. Additionally, the secretary may also use funds to care for the species seized from a violator.
The U.S. Coast Guard--Enforcement on the High Seas
If violations of the Act take place within waters monitored by the U.S. Coast Guard, the Coast Guard is permitted to intervene.
How Private Citizens Can Help
The "Safe Harbor" Agreements give private citizens the ability to help endangered species without suffering legal consequences for their assistance. Sometimes endangered species take up residence on private property, and this agreement protects the landowner and acts as a guide for what to do in this situation.
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