|
SCB DC Chapter members gathered with the American Bar Association Endangered Species Committee for a discussion of the Endangered Species Act. |
“The Endangered Species Act: Intersections of Conservation Biology and Law" event brought together more than 40 members of the DC Chapter of the Society for Conservation Biology (SCBinDC) and the American Bar Association (ABA) Endangered Species Committee for an evening discussion.
After a brief introduction and overview of the ESA by Allison Leidner (SCBinDC) and Linus Chen (ABA), three panelists presented a wide range of perspectives on the “pit bull” of American environmental law. The panelists were:
1) Ya Wei “Jake” Li, an attorney at Defenders of Wildlife
2) Rick Sayers, a retired biologist formerly with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Chief, Division of Consultation, Habitat Conservation Plans, Recovery, and State Grants
3) Steven Quarles, an attorney at Nossaman LLP.
|
SCB DC Chapter members gathered with the American Bar Association Endangered Species Committee for a discussion of the Endangered Species Act. |
There were clearly differing opinions about the practicality and effectiveness of multi-species vs single species conservation plans, as well as differing perspectives on how to set recovery goals. What became clear, however, was the need for the two groups to work together. For example, biologists highlighted that the unique ecology and threats of many species make it difficult to use common standards across listed species, while lawyers noted the regulatory challenges of focusing on single species. A greater appreciation of both sides of the issues could inform research agendas and improved regulations. SCBinDC and ABA are planning to hold future joint events.
If your chapter is interested in contributing to the newsletter and blog, please email Matt Herbert.