Photo credit: esa50.org

Fifty years ago, the federal government put in place its strongest protections to help save species listed as threatened or ENDANGERED here in the United States and abroad.

President Richard Nixon signed the Endangered Species Act (ESA) on Dec. 28, 1973 to protect and in some cases save species of fish, wildlife and plants that face the threat of extinction.

Today, this federal law protects 2,300 species, including 75 that are found here in Arizona, like the Chiricahua leopard frog, Mexican wolf, California condor, Colorado pikeminnow, Sonoyta mud turtle, lesser long-nosed bat and the Pima pineapple cactus. Such a strong law was needed as even the bald eagle—our national bird—was listed as endangered back in 1978. The law is intended to prevent the loss or harm of animals or plants listed as endangered or threatened and to preserve their HABITAT.

Organizations and even individuals can PETITION to have a species of plant or animal listed. But the average time it takes to do the necessary studies and reviews is 12 years, and there are hundreds of species waiting to be listed. Sadly, dozens of those species have gone extinct before they could be listed. But those meeting the high standards get protections, habitat preservation and recovery plans that often involve lots of cooperation, even between countries!

“In its first 50 years, the ESA has been credited with saving 99 percent of listed species from extinction thanks to the collaborative actions of federal agencies, state, local and Tribal governments, conservation organizations and private citizens,” writes the U.S. Dept. of the Interior on its website.

World Record Marathon Holder Is New to Sport

Last fall, Kelvin Kiptum set a world record, running a marathon in just two hours and 35 seconds. That pace means Kiptum averaged running 26.2 miles in four minutes and 36 seconds per mile!

Kiptum, who is only 23 years old, broke the record at the 2023 Chicago MARATHON—finishing ahead of more than 50,000 other runners. Kiptum earned $100,000 for his race victory, plus a $50,000 course record bonus.

“I knew I was coming for a course record, but a world record—I am so happy,” Kiptum said after the race. “A world record was not on my mind today, but I knew one day I would be a world record-holder.”

Eluid Kipchoge held the previous official world record, which Kiptum beat by 34 seconds. Kipchoge, a two-time Olympic champion, is often cited as the greatest marathon runner in history.

While Kiptum has expressed his respect for Kipchoge, Kiptum makes no secret about his goals. His next race will be the Rotterdam Marathon in April—and Kiptum’s dream is to become the first athlete ever to run a marathon with an official time of less than two hours.

“I'll go there to run fast—the course is ideal, and the crowds in the streets push you to give your best. I would love to be a part of the rich history of this marathon,” Kiptum said.

After that? Kiptum is hoping all of his training will pay off in Paris—where he has his eyes on participating in the Olympics in 2024.

So how exactly does someone prepare for goals like those Kiptum has set? Kiptum runs around 180 miles a week! He runs every day and, most days, he runs twice a day. His typical days only involve running, eating, sleeping, and other activities for his training and recovery.

At 23, Kiptum could have a long running career ahead of him. The Chicago Marathon was Kiptum’s third marathon race. He only started competing in marathons a year ago!