When was the National Marine Fisheries Service established?

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) was established in 1871, making it one of the oldest marine conservation agencies in the United States. This agency was initially created to promote the study of fish and to manage marine resources sustainably. Its establishment demonstrated an early recognition of the need for fishery management and conservation practices. This was particularly important at a time when overfishing and habitat degradation were becoming urgent environmental issues.

The other choices represent significant dates in the history of marine conservation but do not correlate with the founding of NMFS. The year 1900 is associated with subsequent advancements in fishery management legislation, while 1950 and 2000 are typically connected to various environmental laws and regulatory changes that have shaped contemporary fishery management, rather than the agency's establishment. Thus, the selection of 1871 reflects the historical roots of national efforts toward marine resource management.