The South Carolina Endangered Species Act (SCETA) is a state law enacted in 1977 to protect the state’s native species of plants and animals that are threatened with extinction. The Act establishes a comprehensive system of species protection, including the designation of species as endangered, threatened, or of special concern; the establishment of recovery plans and strategies; the designation of critical habitat areas; and the prohibition of certain activities which could harm the species. The South Carolina Endangered Species Act has two main types of protections for endangered species: Section 10(a) and Section 10(b). Section 10(a) of the Act provides for the listing of species as endangered or threatened, establishment of recovery plans, and designation of critical habitat areas. Section 10(b) of the Act provides for the prohibition of activities that could harm species or their habitats. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is responsible for the implementation of the Endangered Species Act, including the listing of species, the enforcement of regulations, and the development of recovery plans. The South Carolina Endangered Species Act also provides for the establishment of a citizen-based committee to provide advice and guidance to the Department of Natural Resources and to the state legislature. The South Carolina Endangered Species Act is an important tool in the conservation of the state’s native species, and provides for the protection and recovery of species that are in danger of extinction.