This course provides a thorough overview of the various sections of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in a computer-based format. An assessment is administered after each module. A overall score of 80% must be achieved in order to successfully complete this course.

Note: This course is a prerequisite for:

• CSP3115 - Endangered Species Listing and Candidate Assessment
• CSP3116 - Interagency Consultation for Endangered Species
• CSP3117 - Habitat Conservation Planning for Endangered Species
• CSP3173 - Endangered Species Recovery Planning and Implementation

This course:

• identifies the differences between laws, regulations and statutes.
• explains the steps in the petition and listing process.
• describes important ESA related definitions.
• identifies the values and benefits of conserving T&E species and their ecosystems.
• identifies the required components of a biological assessment and a biological opinion needed to comply with Section 7 of the ESA.
• describes Critical Habitat.
• outlines the Habitat Conservation Plans and Candidate Conservation Agreements with Assurances processes.
• identifies responsibilities for implementing Fish and Wildlife Service recovery plans.
• identifies prohibited acts and penalties for non-compliance with ESA.
• describes exceptions to prohibited acts.

Objectives: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Describe the contents of the major sections of the ESA
• Define major terms identified in the ESA
• Describe the petition and listing process
• Identify the steps to be taken for compliance with Section 7 of the ESA.
• Identify the background, application, and procedural requirements of the Habitat Conservation Planning and Candidate Conservation Agreements with Assurances processes.
• Describe ESA related prohibited acts and exceptions.
• Describe penalties associated with ESA-related violations

Target Audience: Wildlife and fisheries biologists; botanists; natural resource specialists; managers; others that require a basic awareness of the Endangered Species Act

Keyword: 1730-36, FWS-CSP3114