Biodiversity and Wildlife

America’s wildlife and natural habitats face unprecedented challenges from habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change. The federal government protects and restores biodiversity through landmark conservation laws, coordinated agency efforts, and partnerships with private landowners. From the Endangered Species Act—sometimes called the “Magna Carta of the environmental movement”—to the Land and Water Conservation Fund, these programs work together to preserve the nation’s biological heritage while supporting outdoor recreation and sustainable industries. The Department of the Interior leads much of this work, managing over 560 national wildlife refuges.

Federal Conservation Laws and Programs

Key federal laws provide the foundation for wildlife protection. The Endangered Species Act protects plants and animals threatened with extinction, while the Lacey Act combats illegal wildlife trafficking and invasive species. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act regulates hunting seasons based on bird populations, and the National Wildlife Refuge System secures wild habitats across the country. Beyond laws, the Farm Bill directs hundreds of millions of dollars annually to conservation programs that help landowners protect wetlands, grasslands, and wildlife corridors on working agricultural lands. Programs like Working Lands for Wildlife provide technical and financial assistance to improve both farm productivity and wildlife habitat simultaneously.

Connecting Conservation to Your Community

Federal conservation efforts extend beyond pristine wilderness. The Urban Wildlife Conservation Program brings nature access to the 80 percent of Americans living in cities and suburbs, with over 100 national wildlife refuges located within 25 miles of urban areas. Conservation also intersects with everyday decisions—like how American government supports sustainable seafood to protect marine ecosystems, or how renewable energy development, including wind energy myths, balances energy needs with wildlife protection.