Introduction

        The Endangered Species Act and all the laws governing the protection of endangered and threatened species all started in one place: the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service. They are responsible for protecting the nations most precious residents: the animals. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service got its start in 1871 by the proposal of President Grant. It was originally called the U.S. Fish Commission as it spent its first 70 years monitoring and conserving the nation's game fish species. It became a vital asset to the nation as it began to build hatcheries across America to promote fish populations. This allowed for a healthy population of the country's game fish while also allowing healthy fishing seasons without threatening the species. In 1940 the U.S. Fish Commission by then renamed to the U.S. Bureau of Fisheries joined with the Bureau of Biological Survey to create what is know today as the Fish and Wildlife Service of the Department of the Interior. With the help of state agencies their job is to monitor, research and protect wildlife populations and habitats on federal lands. They control wildlife that is dangerous to human well-being, as well as train fish and wildlife professionals and run environment education centers.