A plan for conserving California's wildlife resources while responding to environmental challenges
CDFW conducted a comprehensive review and update of the
California State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP). The draft was made available for public comment
in March 2025 and a recording of a public presentation is now available. Please
find more information on the review process along with the recorded
presentation and other resources below.
California’s distinctive topography and climate have given rise to a remarkable diversity of habitats that support a multitude of plant and animal species. In fact, California has more species than any other state in the U.S. and also has the greatest number of species that occur nowhere else in the world. Many of the places where wildlife thrive are the same as those valued for recreation and other human activities. To ensure a sustainable future for wildlife – and the enjoyment of wildlife by generations to come – there is a need for a collaborative approach to conservation.
The State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) examines the health of wildlife and prescribes actions to conserve wildlife and vital habitat before they become more rare and more costly to protect. The plan also promotes wildlife conservation while furthering responsible development and addressing the needs of a growing human population.
CDFW released the draft SWAP 2025 for public review and hosted two Public Information Sessions in March. Please find a session recording and more information below under “External Partner, Tribal, and Public Engagement”. The public is welcome to contact the SWAP staff with comments or questions by email to SWAP@wildlife.ca.gov. Comments submitted on the draft after March 31, 2025 may not be considered for the SWAP 2025, but will be considered for future updates. Please utilize this online form to submit comments on the draft.