Proposed Rule Threatens Protected Species in the Northeast Last week, the Trump Administration proposed a rule change that would significantly weaken the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the cornerstone of wildlife conservation in the United States. This change could be devastating for species like the Piping Plover and the Northern Long-eared Bat, both of which depend on habitat protections to survive and recover. Since its passage in 1973, the ESA has prevented the extinction of 99 percent of listed species. The Piping Plover, federally listed as threatened, nests on Atlantic beaches in states like Massachusetts, New York, and New Jersey. It faces threats from shoreline development, human disturbance, and rising sea levels. The Northern Long-eared Bat, listed as endangered, inhabits northeastern forests and is in steep decline due to white-nose syndrome and habitat fragmentation. Both rely on the ESA to limit damaging activities in critical habitats. Despite the ESA’s success and strong public backing, it is under threat. A new rule proposed by the Departments of the Interior and Commerce would redefine the term “harm” to mean only direct, intentional killing or injury. It would no longer cover habitat destruction or degradation, which are primary threats for both of these species. The Piping Plover requires open, undisturbed beach habitat for nesting and raising chicks. The Northern Long-eared Bat depends on healthy forests for roosting and hibernation. Without protections against habitat loss, logging, development, and other disturbances could proceed without accountability, as long as the harm was not intentional. This redefinition would also make enforcement harder. Proving intent creates a loophole that shields actors who degrade habitats but claim they did not mean to cause harm. Communities like EwA are more important than ever. Our voice and the voice of nature matters. Let’s be heard! How You Can Help The ESA is essential for species like the Piping Plover and Northern Long-eared Bat. Weakening its habitat protections could reverse decades of progress. Now is the time to defend one of our most effective conservation laws. | 
