Ian Brickey, ian.brickey@sierraclub.org
WASHINGTON, D.C. – A new report released this week by the Endangered Species Coalition lays out success stories of wildlife conservation and options for saving imperiled species in the future. The new report, Ten Stories of Hope: The Endangered Species Act at 50, highlights ten case studies of successful efforts to protect and recover imperiled fish, birds, plants and mammals across the United States.
Sierra Club nominated the Chinook salmon for the report because of the species’ vital importance throughout the Pacific Northwest. Robust Chinook salmon populations are essential to the way of life for Tribes in the Northwest, and are a vital food source for endangered Orcas in the Salish Sea. Removal of four dams on the Klamath River over the next year — the largest dam removal project in history – will reopen hundreds of miles of river to Chinook and Coho salmon.
The Endangered Species Act came into effect 50 years ago this year. The immensely popular, successful and historic piece of legislation has been indispensable in protecting wildlife, plants and the natural world for future generations. The Endangered Species Act has saved 99% of species protected under its auspices from extinction, including the humpback whale, grizzly bear and bald eagle.
The Endangered Species Coalition’s member groups nominated species featured in the report. A committee of distinguished scientists reviewed the nominations and chose the finalists. The full report can be viewed and downloaded here.
In response, Sierra Club Wildlife Campaign Manager Bonnie Rice, released the following statement:
“For half a century, the Endangered Species Act has protected imperiled species from extinction. It is one of the country’s most effective and bedrock environmental laws, but many wildlife and plant species face more threats than ever due to climate change, industrial development, and especially habitat destruction – the number one driver of extinction.
“This report makes it clear that, while these threats to species are real, we have reason for hope over despair. Protecting and restoring habitats, stopping their destruction, addressing climate change and safeguarding the Endangered Species Act will ensure that vital species like chinook salmon will not only survive but thrive for generations to come.”
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.