Can the United States Army Adjust to the Endangered Species Act of 1973?
Abstract
A dramatic shift in the public's attitude towards environmental issues has occurred in the past two decades. Business as usual now mandates that citizens, corporations, and governmental agencies must incorporate environmental compliance and protection into their respective ethics and conduct. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) has significantly impacted the United States Army's ability to sustain its readiness posture by restricting its training activities. The findings, recommendations, and conclusions contained in this study project are supported by official documents and publications, oral interviews, and a survey. A review of the military's environmental responsibilities and current ESA issues on Army installations is evaluated in the context of balancing future training requirements with the protection of endangered species. Recommendations are made in anticipation of these future requirements and constraints imposed upon Army commanders by the ESA. The conclusions reflect a pessimistic yet realistic future for the Army in its attempt to reconcile its training and environmental responsibilities. A policy trace of the ESA and a survey of selected Army War College students is appended.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 15, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA251308
Entities
People
- Mark D. Ahner
Organizations
- United States Army War College