Center for
Biological Diversity
January 2018
On January 2, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service protected Black Warrior waterdog salamanders under the Endangered Species Act — along with 420 river miles of protected "critical habitat."
Black Warrior waterdog salamander - Image Todd Pierson/Flickr
An important victory to ring in the year: On Tuesday the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service protected Black Warrior waterdog salamanders under the
Endangered Species Act — along with 420 river miles of protected "critical
habitat."
These rare salamanders, found only in one river basin in Alabama, are on the
brink of extinction because of ongoing habitat destruction and water
pollution from agricultural and industrial operations.
The Center petitioned for the salamander's protection in 2004 and again in
2010. This week's decision is the result of a Center legal victory that has
protected nearly 200 species.
"Aquatic salamanders like the Black Warrior waterdog are indicator species
that reflect the health of the environment we all share," said the Center's
Elise Bennett. "Protecting these special amphibians and their habitat will
help protect water quality for both waterdogs and people."
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