Please note that the content of this book primarily consists of articles available from Wikipedia or other free sources online. The Antarctic Conservation Act, enacted in 1978 by the 95th United States Congress (Pub.L. 95-541), and amended by Pub.L. 104-227, is a United States federal law that addresses the issue of environmental conservation on the continent of Antarctica. The Departments of the Treasury, Interior and Commerce are responsible for the Act's enforcement. Until the 1960s, few rules existed regarding activities in Antarctica. Fishing, whaling and sealing were uncontrolled, and various species were threatened with extinction. Tourists and research stations littered and polluted. In 1961 the Antarctic Treaty was established to protect the continent, and establishes major restrictions and responsibilities on visitors and uses.