May 22, 2023

The U.S. Postal Service and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service were in South Dakota last week to unveil a collection of stamps honoring the conservation of endangered species.

The 20 Forever stamps show endangered animals within the U.S. and its borders, and they also commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act, or ESA.

“There’s a story behind every stamp, just as there is a story behind every one of these animals,” said Peter Pastre, the Postal Service’s government relations and public policy vice president, who spoke at the dedication ceremony in Wall.

“We hope the endangered species stamps tell the story of hard work, humanity and hope, while raising awareness about endangered animals and wildlife, and the efforts to protect them.”

The photos were taken by Joel Sartore, a National Geographic Explorer and photographer, as part of his National Geographic Photo Ark project, an effort to document every species living in the world’s zoos, aquariums and wildlife sanctuaries.

The ESA provides a framework for conserving and protecting endangered and threatened species and their habitats both domestically and abroad, said Great Plains Zoo CEO Becky Dewitz, who spoke at the event and is an incoming member of the American Zoological Association’s board of directors.

“Zoos and aquariums accredited by AZA have worked tirelessly to save and restore endangered species. We celebrate the ESA by educating millions of visitors on the beauty and importance of the natural world and the animals that call it home,” Dewitz said.

“We are so proud to have some of the animals we care for featured in Joel’s stunning photography and commemorated in the postage stamps we unveil today.”

The zoo participates in conservation efforts for two animals featured: the black-footed ferret and red wolf.

Until June 9, all first-class mail bearing postage stamps will be postmarked with an image of a black-footed ferret and these words: “Protect Endangered Species.”