*An Ideal Way to Recognize ESA Successes

David Robinson (12/17/23)

The recent IUCN Red List update announced at the recent UN Climate Conference was distressing. We learned that the list of species threatened with extinction has increased by nearly 2,000 new species over last year. Climate change and human activity have been the two main threats to global diversity and species protection.

However, as we approach the 50^th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act (December 28), we can also emphasize some positive news.  One of the ongoing “bright spots” is the vast number of organizations and individuals working tirelessly to save species and their precious habitats.

For example, a new report released earlier this month by the Endangered Species Coalition features some exciting and successful wildlife conservation stories. The Ten Stories of Hope: The Endangered Species Act at 50 report focuses on ten examples of conservationists using diverse strategies to protect and recover imperiled fish, birds, plants and mammals in the U.S.

“This report offers hope that we can restore habitats and safeguard imperiled animals and plants,” said Susan Holmes, executive director of the Endangered Species Coalition. “As demonstrated by the extraordinary efforts of dedicated field researchers, citizen scientists, and volunteers working to save species throughout the country, the Endangered Species Act works!”

Ten Stories of Hope profiles the stories of people, agencies and organizations who are dedicated to help recover species the Act protects, including the Florida grasshopper sparrow, Chinook salmon, and the sea otter. The species-saving conservation methods range from seed-banking and outplanting, to protecting migration corridors and nesting sites; from removing dams to restoring habitat. The Endangered Species Coalition’s member groups nominated species for the report. A committee of distinguished scientists reviewed the nominations and chose the finalists. It can be viewed and downloaded here: https://www.endangered.org/ten-stories-of-hope.

While we anticipate a new year of ESA attacks, species dangers, and other challenges, we must take time to applaud those groups and individuals (including you) who make a difference. Every single day. Thank you all.

Wishing you good health, happiness and Peace.

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