Does Money Matter? Examining Relationships Between Federal Funding & Population Trends for ESA-Listed Marine Species

This thesis investigates the impact of federal funding on the population trends of marine species listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). While the ESA is a cornerstone of conservation policy, concerns have been raised about underfunding and inequitable resource allocation. Using regression modeling, this study finds no significant correlation between the total amount of federal funding and species recovery likelihood. However, it reveals that longer durations of funding, specifically twenty or more years, are significantly associated with improved population trends. These results emphasize the critical role of sustained, long-term financial investment in marine conservation efforts. The thesis concludes with recommendations for policymakers to focus on species-specific recovery plans, equitable funding distribution, and enhanced data transparency to strengthen conservation outcomes.