Identify one major federal law that impacts wildlife management.

The Endangered Species Act is a critical piece of federal legislation that plays a significant role in wildlife management. Enacted in 1973, this law aims to protect and recover imperiled species and the ecosystems upon which they depend. Under this act, species that are at risk of extinction can be listed as either endangered or threatened, giving them legal protection from harm and exploitation.

The act requires federal agencies to ensure that their actions do not jeopardize the continued existence of these species or destroy their critical habitats. Additionally, it empowers states and local entities to develop recovery plans that focus on conserving the species and their environments. The success of the Endangered Species Act can be observed in numerous species recovering from the brink of extinction, demonstrating its profound impact on wildlife conservation efforts.

While other federal laws like the Clean Water Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act also contribute to wildlife management, the Endangered Species Act is particularly focused on the preservation and recovery of specific species at risk, making it a cornerstone of wildlife protection in the United States.