Abstract
No reasonable individual can possibly
fault the concept of legislation enacted
to preserve endangered species. Quite
the contrary. Professional biologists and
non-professionals alike strongly support
any activity that is genuinely beneficial
to wildlife, particularly those in peril.
Unfortunately, while the Endangered
Species Act of 1973 was well intentioned,
it has not turned out to be in the best
interest of the animals involved. All
responsible individuals strongly support
the intent of the Endangered Species
Act. However, many are disenchanted
with the final wording, interpretation
and ultimate implementation. Even
though the specific purpose of the Act
may be beneficial and long overdue, by
the time it was worked over and finally
passed, it became a quagmire of confusion
and a battery of lawyers were required
to interpret it. Even today, almost
two years after it became law, we are
unable to obtain straight answers from
Washington regarding certain aspects of
the Act. If one speaks with three different
individuals in the same office, one
will inevitably receive three different
answers.