Enviro-Explorers club members can visit our threatened and endangered species pages to learn about these species in Iowa; what the DOT is doing to protect them while maintaining and improving our state's transportation system; and what they too can do to protect plants and animals.
         Endangered Species are those species of plant or animal that are in immediate danger of becoming extinct and need protection to survive. Threatened Species are those species that are likely to become endangered if they are not protected.

Bald Eagle

There are many reasons why they have become threatened or endangered. One of the biggest reasons is loss of habitat. Habitat loss happens as population increases, communities grow, and more people move into new areas and push wildlife out.

         The protection of species is achieved at both the federal level through the Endangered Species Act, and the state level through Iowa's Endangered Plants and Wildlife law. These laws protect threatened and endangered species and provide a means to conserve the eco-systems they depend on for survival.
         The Iowa Department of Transportation is concerned about the impact of transportation on the environment, and is exerting great care to maintain the appropriate balance between the two. Click here to learn how the discovery of endangered species has guided a recent highway improvement project at Eddyville, Iowa.
         For pictures and information about some threatened and endangered species, Click here to link to their factsheets.

The best hope for saving endangered species lies with young people who recognize the problem, and care enough to make a difference.

What Enviro-Explorers can do to help! Learn as much as you can about threatened and endangered species in your area. Visit a nearby national wildlife refuge or nature center. Volunteer to help. Don't buy species illegally taken from the wild. Don't buy products made from threatened or endangered animals.