After near-unanimous approval by Congress, the Endangered Species Act was signed into law by President Richard M. Nixon on Dec. 28, 1973. “Nothing is more priceless and more worthy of preservation than the rich array of animal life with which our country has been blessed,” Nixon said after the signing. “It is a many-faceted treasure, of value to scholars, scientists, and nature lovers alike, and it forms a vital part of the heritage we all share as Americans.”

As the 50th anniversary of the ESA approaches, Penn Today reached out to experts from four schools across the University to share their thoughts on the landmark law, its accomplishments, failings, and its outlook for the future.

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