Which act, enacted in 1973, was designed to protect critically imperiled species from extinction?

Which act, enacted in 1973, was designed to protect critically imperiled species from extinction?

• A. National Environmental Policy Act
• B. Clean Water Act
• C. Migratory Bird Treaty Act
• D. Endangered Species Act of 1973

Answer: (D)

This question tests knowledge of a law that directly protects species in danger of disappearing and the places they live. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 established a formal system to identify species at risk, designate them as endangered or threatened, and take steps to protect their survival and recovery. It creates protections for listed species, restricts activities that could harm them, and requires federal agencies to avoid actions that could jeopardize their existence or destroy critical habitat. It also supports recovery planning and habitat conservation. The other laws mentioned address broader environmental concerns or specific groups but don’t focus on safeguarding at-risk species across the board. For example, the National Environmental Policy Act guides environmental reviews for major actions; the Clean Water Act targets water pollution; the Migratory Bird Treaty Act protects migratory birds but is older and narrower in scope. Because the Endangered Species Act is the statute specifically designed to prevent extinction of critically imperiled species, it fits the description given.

This question tests knowledge of a law that directly protects species in danger of disappearing and the places they live. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 established a formal system to identify species at risk, designate them as endangered or threatened, and take steps to protect their survival and recovery. It creates protections for listed species, restricts activities that could harm them, and requires federal agencies to avoid actions that could jeopardize their existence or destroy critical habitat. It also supports recovery planning and habitat conservation.

The other laws mentioned address broader environmental concerns or specific groups but don’t focus on safeguarding at-risk species across the board. For example, the National Environmental Policy Act guides environmental reviews for major actions; the Clean Water Act targets water pollution; the Migratory Bird Treaty Act protects migratory birds but is older and narrower in scope. Because the Endangered Species Act is the statute specifically designed to prevent extinction of critically imperiled species, it fits the description given.