Ecosystem Goal: Protected Species Program

Program Manager:  Phil Williams
Program Coordinator:  Philip Hoffman

Web site:  www.nmfs.noaa.gov/prot_res/prot_res.html

Brief Program Description:

NOAA has responsibility to protect and recover marine and anadromous species listed as threatened and endangered under the Endangered Species Act, and for conservation of most marine mammals protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act to ensure that these species are fully functioning elements of their ecosystems. The first priority of the PSP is to stop the decline of protected species populations to reduce the risk of extinction. Next, efforts are made to stabilize populations, and to recover populations to levels that make them functional members of marine and coastal ecosystems. The program achieves protection and recovery of species through planning, regulation, partnerships, direct action, and outreach and education in both domestic and International arenas.

• Recovery and maintenance of all protected species to fully functioning elements of their ecosystems
• Improved or maintained Protected Species status, including abundance, distribution, productivity, and diversity
• A reduction of risk to species through alleviation of threats (i.e., those factors limiting the survival and recovery of species)
• Increased public awareness of protected species issues
• Effective direct action taken by program partners as a result of management strategies developed by the program

President’s FY 05 budget request:  $173.1M