National Wildlife Conservation Day

Each year on December 4th, Wildlife Conservation Day seeks to spread awareness about preserving and protecting the natural world and its inhabitants. Additionally, the observance strives to put an end to wildlife crime and supporting the Endangered Species Act.

Another focus of Wildlife Conservation Day is the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The ESA was signed into law by President Nixon in 1973. The program helps to protect endangered plants and animals. The lead federal agencies for implementing the ESA include:

• The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)
• U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

The FWS maintains a list of all the endangered species, which include birds, insects, fish, reptiles, mammals, crustaceans, flowers, grasses, and trees. In late 2019 President Trump announced a major overhaul to the law that would reduce regulations. Because of this, it’s more important than ever to support the ESA.

Resources:
Cost Assistance for Landowners Planning Conservation Practices
Managing Your Property for Fish & Wildlife, Ask an Expert, Purdue Extension - Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store, Purdue Extension resource center
Homeowner Conservation Practices to Protect Water Quality, The Education Store
Planning and Resources for Conservation Tree Planting, Ask an Expert, Purdue Extension - FNR YouTube Channel