The Endangered Species Act’s primary purpose is to recover species in danger of extinction. Historically, however, once a species is added to the list, it remains there indefinitely even though it may be abundant or listed in error and not warrant further protection. This causes significant economic harm to landowners who are prevented from using their land and local governments who need to provide necessary community services. It is often only when outside parties require the agency to reconsider the listing that these species are removed from the list and restrictions lifted. This is done primarily by filing formal delisting petitions and pursuing the action in court if necessary. We are leading a movement to remove species that do not warrant protection from the Federal Endangered List.
Listen to "The ESA: A Half Century of Failure" by A Voice for Rural America
Click on the pick below to listen and learn about more about how the ESA has been weaponized against people and species.
