Overview of Key Federal Policies to Limit Biodiversity Loss

These flashcards cover key legislation and concepts related to federal policies aimed at limiting biodiversity loss, as discussed in lectures and readings.

What was the first federal conservation law aimed at preventing the illegal transportation of wildlife?

The Lacey Act (1900)

What significance did the Lacey Act Amendments of 2008 hold?

Expanded the law to prohibit trading illegally sourced plants and plant products.

What does the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (1918) protect?

Migratory birds, their eggs, nests, and feathers.

What type of tax did the Wildlife Restoration Act (Pittman-Robertson Act) (1937) establish?

An excise tax on firearms and ammunition to fund wildlife conservation.

What is the main purpose of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (1940)?

To prohibit harming eagles and their habitats.

What is the main objective of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) (1970)?

To ensure federal agencies assess environmental impacts.

What does the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) (1972) address?

Prohibits the take of marine mammals in U.S. waters.

What is the cornerstone of U.S. wildlife conservation established in 1973?

The Endangered Species Act (ESA).

What does the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (1976) aim to ensure?

The sustainability of marine fisheries.

What is required if a state wants federal funding under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act (1980)?

States must develop a Comprehensive Conservation Plan.

What was the first law regarding the importation of plants that could carry pests?

The Plant Quarantine Act of 1912.

What is the purpose of the Federal Noxious Weed Act of 1974?

To designate noxious weeds and manage infested products.

What does the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 (NANPCA) require?

Ships to manage ballast water to prevent further invasions.

What is the National Invasive Species Act of 1996 known for?

It expanded ballast water regulations to all U.S. waters.

What is the role of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in invasive species control?

To regulate and register pesticides targeting invasive species.

What does CITES stand for and what does it regulate?

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species; it regulates international trade in wild plants and animals.

What is the primary goal of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)?

To conserve global biodiversity and promote sustainable resource use.

What does the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service enforce concerning invasive species?

The Lacey Act 2008 amendments listing injurious wildlife.

What do Safe Harbor Agreements encourage landowners to do?

To take actions that benefit a listed species without additional restrictions.