Endangered Species Forever Stamp 2023
WALL, SD ?? Marking nearly half a century since the inception of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the Postal Service unveils the Endangered Species Forever stamps. These stamps pay homage not only to the ESA but also to the tireless efforts of individuals, organizations, and agencies dedicated to preserving and safeguarding endangered wildlife.
Featuring 20 captivating photographs, the stamps showcase endangered animals native to the 50 states, American territories, and two North American species residing near U.S. borders.
Peter Pastre, the Postal Service??s government relations and public policy vice president, emphasized the significance of each stamp, stating, ??There??s a story behind every stamp, just as there is a story behind every one of these animals.?? Pastre hopes that these stamps serve as a testament to hard work, compassion, and optimism while raising awareness about endangered species and the ongoing conservation efforts.
Since the enactment of the ESA, hundreds of species in the United States have been rescued from the brink of extinction. Under the purview of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, species requiring protection are classified as threatened or endangered, the latter indicating a critical risk of extinction throughout their habitat range.
Martha Williams, Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, emphasized the ESA's pivotal role in conservation, stating, ??The ESA is one of the world??s most important conservation laws, and it plays an integral role in preventing extinctions, promoting recovery of wildlife, and preserving their habitats.??
The stunning photographs featured on the stamps are the work of National Geographic Explorer and photographer Joel Sartore, part of his National Geographic Photo Ark project. Sartore's project aims to document every species residing in zoos, aquariums, and wildlife sanctuaries worldwide, fostering awareness and support for conservation initiatives.
Reflecting on the significance of these stamps, Sartore remarked, ??Each serves as a reminder of the ESA??s importance, and as a tribute to the dedicated people who have worked so hard to save each and every one of them.??
Since its enactment by President Richard Nixon on December 27, 1973, the ESA has served as a model for conservation efforts globally. It provides a comprehensive framework for protecting endangered and threatened species and their habitats both domestically and internationally.
The animals depicted on the stamps, many of which were photographed in zoos, highlight the critical role of accredited zoos and aquariums in species conservation. Becky Dewitz, CEO of the Great Plains Zoo, emphasized the vital role of zoos in raising awareness and fostering appreciation for the natural world.
To commemorate the release of the Endangered Species Forever stamps, all First-Class Mail bearing postage stamps from May 19 to June 9 will feature a postmark image of a black-footed ferret with the words: ??Protect Endangered Species.??
