What is the primary purpose of the Endangered Species Act?

The primary purpose of the Endangered Species Act is to protect and recover imperiled species and the ecosystems upon which they depend. This federal law, enacted in 1973, aims to prevent the extinction of endangered and threatened species by providing a framework for their conservation and management. The Act establishes legal protections for these species and their habitats, ensuring that they have the necessary resources for survival and recovery.

Through measures such as habitat protection, restoration, and recovery planning, the Endangered Species Act not only focuses on individual species but also emphasizes the importance of ecosystem health. By safeguarding these species, the Act contributes to biodiversity and ecological balance, which are crucial for a sustainable environment.