How does the Services Endangered Species Program protect candidate species?
An effective program for the conservation of endangered species requires a means of addressing species that have not yet been listed but that face immediate, identifiable risks. Early conservation preserves management options for recovery, reduces potential conflicts with development and other legitimate activities, and is considerably less costly. Therefore, once we determine that a species truly warrants listing under the ESA, we take advantage of opportunities to consider it in all parts of the Service’s endangered species – program. For example, when Federal agencies consult with the Service under section 7 of the ESA, we often provide conservation recommendations that could minimize or avoid adverse impacts on candidate species. Under section 10, the Service encourages applicants for incidental take permits to consider candidate species in Habitat Conservation Plans. In accordance with the Service’s “no surprises” policy, if applicants address candidates in HCPs as if they were li
