Which act identifies threatened and endangered species in the US, prioritizing their protection?

The Endangered Species Act is the key legislation in the United States that is specifically designed to identify and protect threatened and endangered species. Established in 1973, the act provides a framework to conserve not just the species themselves, but also the ecosystems upon which they depend. By prioritizing species that are at risk of extinction, it aims to ensure their recovery and survival for future generations. The act requires federal agencies to evaluate the impacts of their actions on endangered or threatened species and their habitats, promoting coordinated conservation efforts. This includes designating critical habitats and developing recovery plans, making it a vital tool for biodiversity preservation.

In contrast, while the Clean Water Act focuses on the regulation of water pollution and the protection of water quality, the Wildlife Conservation Act centers on broader wildlife management and conservation strategies but does not specifically address endangered species. The National Environmental Policy Act, on the other hand, requires federal agencies to assess the environmental impacts of their proposed actions but does not directly prioritize species protection like the Endangered Species Act does. Thus, the Endangered Species Act is distinctly recognized for its targeted efforts in the conservation of threatened and endangered species.