Using Section 7 as a recovery tool

Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) is one of the most important provisions of this landmark law. Specifically, section 7 (a)(1) charges federal agencies with aiding in the conservation of listed species, and section 7 (a)(2) requires agencies to consult with the Fish and Wildlife Service (or NOAA-Fisheries for most marine species) to ensure that any projects or activities they fund, authorize, or carry out are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of listed species or adversely modify designated critical habitat.Section 7 consultations typically occur in the Service's network of Ecological Services field offices. Managing an increasing number of section 7 consultations in a time of diminishing resources has become a challenge faced by many field offices. In this environment, striving to reduce negative impacts as much as possible in every consultation can lead to consultation backlogs that cause project …