SPECIES CONSERVATION

WHAT IS SPECIES CONSERVATION?

A conservation bank is an area that has been restored or protected to offset losses to endangered, threatened, or special status species and their habitats. Banks obtain conservation credits based on the type of habitat and acres conserved. Credits allow clients to satisfy their environmental mitigation permit needs before impacting endangered, threatened, or other special status species and their habitat. WES offers conservation credits at our banks in California and Mississippi.

Regulatory Agencies

In 1973, the legislature passed the Endangered Species Act (ESA), establishing a framework to protect plants and animals in danger of extinction without human intervention. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA) determine which species make the endangered species list and their status - endangered or threatened. The USFWS has primary responsibility for terrestrial species like birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, plants, invertebrates, and freshwater species. NOAA has jurisdiction for marine species, such as whales, salmon, corals, and turtles.

There are also numerous state regulations and agencies that provide additional protection for habitat and species.

Visit USFWS Visit NOAA

Species Conserved

WES has helped conserve habitat for over 47 threatened and endangered species nationwide, covering various animals and plants. WES currently has credits for 12 different species. WES staff undergoes ongoing training and partners with industry professionals to ensure that we properly monitor and manage the species on our properties.