ENDANGERED SPECIES PRESERVATION ACT

Passed in 1966, this represented the first legislated effort towards identification and protection of animal species in the United States threatened by extinction. It represented the forerunner of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973, but would first be replaced by the Endangered Species Conservation Act of 1969. Major provisions of this act included: (1) Identification of native vertebrates in danger of extinction; (2) Directed federal agencies to preserve habitat when "practicable and consistent"; (3) Authorized establishment of National Wildlife Refuges to protect habitat; and (4) Provided no protection except on refuges.