The Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Species Program focuses on the conservation of biological diversity. Our human existence depends on the entwined relationships and processes of all life, from tiny bacteria to grizzly bear. We rely on plants and animals for food, livelihood, medicine, shelter, clothes, recreation, and spiritual renewal. The Forest Service manages 156 national forests and 20 national grasslands. These 191 million acres represent an amazing variety of landscapes and ecosystems ranging from subalpine tundra to tropical rainforest.
Aquatic habitats vary from clear mountain streams to low country swamps.
More than 2 million acres of lakes, ponds and reservoirs and 200,000 miles of streams shelter a myriad of aquatic life. These diverse lands and waters provide home to more than 3,000 wildlife and fish species and 10,000 plant species. With the help of our many partners, most are thriving under the care and stewardship of the Forest Service . The Forest Service plays a crucial role in the conservation of these species and is dedicated to taking appropriate management action to protect and improve their habitat. Additionally, the Forest Service has designated some 2,900 species as sensitive species.