NATURAL RESOURCES COUNCIL OF MAINE • September 26, 2024
Maine’s natural beauty is defined by its forests, coastlines, rivers, and wildlife, all of which play an important role in the state’s ecological health and economy. However, many species that call Maine home are facing significant threats from habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. The Endangered Species Act (ESA), passed in 1973, is one of the most effective legal tools we have to protect threatened and endangered species across the United States. In Maine, the ESA is especially important for several species, such as the Atlantic salmon, Canada lynx, Furbish lousewort, and Piping Plover. If we value these amazing plant and animal species, we need to defend the ESA against attempts to weaken these common-sense protections and push for opportunities to strengthen this bedrock environmental law for future generations.