To paraphrase the great 20th century ecologist G. E. Hutchinson, species are the actors in the ecosystem theater. To sustain a viable future for our descendants, we must find ways to preserve both species and ecosystems. The ESA is a critically important part of our efforts to conserve species and thereby conserve ecosystems. By virtue of the habitat restrictions that accompany endangered status, species that happen to share habitat with an endangered species gain a measure of protection. The 20-year history of the ESA has validated its focus on species endangerment.
Species are objective entities that are easily recognized.
Their health and needs can be assessed and sound scientific management plans can be implemented. This is further compounded by the fact that many species remain undescribed. It was my great good fortune to work with a knowledgeable, effective and collegial committee. The various chapters of this report are the product of much hard work and spirited debate. Staff Officer Patricia Peacock was a source of much practical experience in conservation policy and she was a diligent editor and critic.