John, 

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) is one of our nation’s most important, successful, and popular laws. Since enacted, 99% of species under its protection have been saved from extinction.

But now, ESA faces serious attacks from the anti-science interests of Trump and his MAGA administration. Imperiled animals in Washington State and throughout the nation need you to speak up on their behalf, before it’s too late.

Before ESA protections for habitat were enacted, development, urban sprawl, and industrial interests destroyed and degraded important habitats for threatened and endangered species. After the designation of critical habitats for listed species, such as the spotted owl, Chinook salmon, and the Hood Canal summer chum, populations steadied and, in some cases, rebounded. 

The key to these successes is habitat protection. Currently, the ESA forbids the “harm” of endangered species, which includes their habitats. However, anti-science Trump appointees want to narrow the definition of “harm” to only acts that directly injure or kill listed species. 

Imagine you're responsible for protecting a child. Under the broad definition of harm, you're not just preventing someone from hitting the child—you’re also making sure they have a safe home, clean air, healthy food, and aren’t exposed to toxic chemicals. Now, imagine narrowing the definition of harm to only mean physically hitting the child. That would mean you could demolish their house, pollute their air, or take away their food—as long as you don’t lay a hand on them. They might get sick or even die, but under that narrow definition, it wouldn’t "count" as harm.

We need your help. The salmon need your help. All ESA listed species need your help. Make your voice heard by submitting comments opposing this change by May 19.

Thanks for being a champion for salmon and other ESA listed species.

Robinson Low (he/him)
Habitat Policy Manager, Washington Conservation Action