Regional Conservation Investment Strategies

Program Overview

An RCIS can use a variety of existing information, including research and recovery plans for species and natural resources as well as projected development plans, to assess the area's existing conditions. An RCIS also includes guidance for the types and locations of conservation and mitigation projects that would provide ecological benefits to the area based on its existing conditions. Any public agency or federally recognized tribe may choose to propose an RCIS, which is developed in collaboration with local entities and stakeholders and is reviewed and approved by CDFW. Once approved, an RCIS becomes publicly available and can be used by anyone to help identify conservation or mitigation projects. An RCIS is a comprehensive guidance document, not a binding regulatory plan. RCISs are initially approved for 10 years but can be extended.

RCIS Submittals

RCIS In Development

RCIS Program Map

See the below static map or the Interactive Map for locations of RCISs that are in development or review as well as RCISs that have been approved.

Additional Resources

• RCIS Subprogram Overview, Webinar, October 2024 (Video). For access to the slides, including the links, please see the RCIS Subprogram Webinar Slide Deck (PDF).
• RCIS Program Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)

Program Contact

For further information about the RCIS Program, contact the RCIS Program Team at RCIS@wildlife.ca.gov. Click the "Subscribe" button at the top of the page to sign up for updates about the RCIS Program.