CDFW News

Be Part of Protecting California’s Biodiversity During Invasive Species Action Week

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 11:08:44 GMT

Get involved to help prevent the harmful impacts of invasive species that threaten our state’s natural resources, ecology and economy during California Invasive Species Action Week (CISAW), June 6-14, 2026.

The week will offer opportunities for people across the state to come together, get their hands (or gloves) dirty and take action to protect California’s biodiversity. Educational talks are also in the lineup for those who would like to learn more about how invasives are bad news for native species, and how to identify and report invasive species.

Find the full list of CISAW events online (PDF), some which require participants to register in advance. Events planned for the week include but are not limited to:

June 6: Plant and maintain native plants and remove invasive non-native plants with the Golden Gate Bird Alliance at Pier 94 in San Francisco. The Salt Marsh Wetlands there are home to the endangered native plant California seablite, a host plant for the endangered Western pigmy blue butterfly.
June 7, 8 &14: Join the Ventura Land Trust at Harmon Canyon in Ventura where volunteers will be working to remove noxious and invasive weeds to restore the native landscape to support native plants, pollinators and other wildlife.
June 8-12: Tune in to the UC Cooperative Extension’s Lunchtime Talks webinar series, where each weekday experts will take on invasive species topics focusing on concerns and strategies for managing them.
June 9: Take the League to Save Lake Tahoe’s Eyes on the Lake Training in South Lake Tahoe, where participants will learn to identify native versus non-native aquatic plants and how to report aquatic invaders that damage Lake Tahoe’s ecosystem.
June 10: Volunteer with the Mendocino Land Trust at Navarro Point Preserve and Scenic Trail to pull invasive plant species, pick up garbage and maintain the trail.
June 11: Remove invasive plant species at Guerneville River Park with Sonoma County Parks. Invasive plants crowd out native plant communities that wildlife depends upon for food and shelter.
June 13: Learn how to identify common local invasive plants, properly remove them and help restore native pollinator habitat with the Sacramento Valley Conservancy as part of Sacramento County Regional Parks’ Family Health & Fitness Day at Camp Pollock.
June 14: Help members of the Milo Baker Chapter of the California Native Plant Society as they work in Bodega Head State Park to remove South African ice plant that was once used for erosion control along California’s coast and is now smothering our native plants.

Be a part of the effort to remove invasive species and restore wildlife habitat throughout the year by volunteering through the California State Parks Foundation and other local organizations.

Californians can also help stop the spread of invasive species by taking small, everyday actions, such as landscaping with native plants, not releasing unwanted pets into the wild and to “Clean, Drain, Dry” gear when recreating in bodies of water. The CISAW page lists simple actions Californians can take all year long while visiting natural areas, boating, fishing and even at home.

Invasive species threaten the abundance of native species through competition for resources, predation, disease transmission or by causing physical changes to the invaded habitat. Impacts of invasive species on natural ecosystems, agricultural and other developed lands, water delivery and flood protection systems, may also negatively affect human health and the economy.

The mission of CDFW’s Invasive Species Program is to reduce the impacts of invasive species on the wildlands and waterways of California. The program is involved in efforts to prevent the introduction of these species into the state, detect and respond to introductions when they occur and prevent the spread of those species that have established.

For questions or more information about CISAW contact invasives@wildlife.ca.gov.

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Media Contacts:
Krysten Kellum, CDFW Communications, (916) 825-7120
Daydre Roser, CDFW Invasive Species Program, (916) 720-1226

June 2026 California Department of Fish and Wildlife Calendar

Fri, 29 May 2026 14:27:03 GMT

All calendar items are subject to change.

Wildlife areas, ecological reserves and other properties may be closed due to wildfires, flooding or storm damage. Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to check for closures before leaving on any recreational trip.

Various Days — Kokanee Salmon at Stampede Reservoir, CA-89, Truckee. In May 2025, 50,000 kokanee fingerlings with clipped adipose fins were released into Stampede Reservoir. Anglers who catch kokanee from now through 2028 are encouraged to report their catch, whether the fish has a clipped fin or not. Your reports help CDFW understand how stocking contributes to the kokanee fishery. For more information, visit CDFW’s Fishing for Kokanee page or contact rachel.fichman@wildlife.ca.gov.

2 — Big Game Drawing Deadline. The deadline to submit applications for elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep and premium deer tags is June 2. Sales transactions must be completed before midnight. Hunters may apply at CDFW license sales offices, license sales agents, online or through telephone sales at (800) 565-1458. For more information, contact a local CDFW license sales office or visit CDFW’s Big Game Hunting Tags page.

5 — Community Habitat Restoration, 3-5 p.m., 303 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey (90293). Let’s roll up sleeves to help the Friends of Ballona Wetlands restore the last coastal wetland in Los Angeles. Get hands-on experience while learning about urban ecology. The time and effort put into clearing out invasive vegetation give slow-growing native plants room to thrive. Parking and entrance gate are located behind Local Market. Registration is required. For more details about the event and to register, visit the event page.

6-14 — California Invasive Species Action Week (CISAW). Join agencies and organizations across the state to take action to protect California from the environmental and economic impacts caused by non-native invasive species. Action Week events include habitat restoration and invasive species removal projects, community scientist surveys and field outings. All events are open to the public, and some require pre-registration. The list of events can be found on the CISAW web page.

7 — Salt Marsh and Dunes Tour at Ballona Reserve, 10 a.m. to noon, 303 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey (90293). Explore the wonder of nature in the middle of urban Los Angeles! Friends of Ballona docents will lead the tour through the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve, teaching participants about its history and ecology. Enjoy all the special and unique native plants on the journey through different habitats. Participants might even meet some of the local wildlife. Parking and entrance gate are located behind Local Market. Registration is required. For more details about the event and to register, visit the event page.

10 — Fishing in the City Clinic, 3-7 p.m., Howe Community Park, 2201 Cottage Way, Sacramento (95825). Do you know a kid eager to catch fish? Great, because it’s catfish season in Sacramento! Join CDFW at Youth Beginner Fishing Clinics, held monthly at local parks through September. These free fishing clinics are for beginners ages 5-15 to learn the basics of fishing, casting, conservation and more. Everything needed is provided, and clinics are held rain or shine. To learn more about Fishing in the City and to register for a Sacramento area clinic, visit the Sacramento Fishing in the City page. To learn more about Fishing in the City opportunities in other areas, visit CDFW’s Fishing in the City page.

13 — Recreational Ocean Salmon Fishing Opens from Oregon/California Border to the 40°10’ Line. The Klamath Management Zone (KMZ) opens for recreational ocean salmon fishing with a regional harvest guideline of 3,900 Chinook. Inseason action may be taken to close open days when total harvest is approaching the area specific harvest guideline, with a minimum size limit of 20 inches total length. For more information, visit the Ocean Salmon web page or call either the CDFW Ocean Salmon Regulations Hotline at (707) 576-3429 or the National Marine Fisheries Service Ocean Salmon Regulations Hotline at (800) 662-9825. For questions, email ocean.salmon@wildlife.ca.gov.

13 — Recreational Ocean Salmon Fishing Opens from 40°10’ Line to Point Arena. The Fort Bragg Management Zone opens for recreational ocean salmon fishing with a regional harvest guideline of 5,100 Chinook. Inseason action may be taken to close open days when total harvest is approaching the area specific harvest guideline, with a minimum size limit of 20 inches total length. For more information, visit the Ocean Salmon web page or call either the CDFW Ocean Salmon Regulations Hotline at (707) 576-3429 or the National Marine Fisheries Service Ocean Salmon Regulations Hotline at (800) 662-9825. For questions, email ocean.salmon@wildlife.ca.gov.

13 — Ballona Creek Cleanup at Ballona Reserve, 9:30 a.m. to noon, 303 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey (90293). Help the Friends of Ballona Wetlands clean up the last coastal wetland in Los Angeles. Did you know that 130 square miles of storm drain flow into Ballona Creek? Gutter trash from as far away as North Hollywood can end up right here! The time and effort put into clearing out debris means less trash in the wetlands, on beaches and in the open ocean. Parking and entrance gates are located behind Local Market. Registration is required. For more details about the event and to register, visit the event page.

13 — Fiji Trail Invasive Plant Removal at Ballona Reserve, 9-11 a.m., 13730 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey (90292). Help CDFW remove invasive weeds in the public access trail known as the Fiji Trail in Area A. Get hands-on experience while learning about urban ecology with a chance to witness the beauty of the area’s flora and fauna. The time and effort put into clearing out invasive vegetation gives slow-growing native plants room to thrive. Parking is free on a first-come, first-served basis with an area to lock up bicycles. Registration will be on site consisting of a volunteer signup form/waiver. All ages are welcome, but minors will need a parent or guardian present at all times. For more information, email michael.schneider@wildlife.ca.gov.

16 — Shared Habitat Alliance for Recreational Enhancement (SHARE) Access Permit Applications on Sale for Fall Elk Hunts. You can now apply for fall elk hunts offered through the SHARE program. Hunters will have new and increased opportunities this fall with the addition of two new SHARE properties in San Benito and Mendocino Counties. A $15.12 non-refundable application fee is charged for each hunt choice. For more information, visit the SHARE page.

17-18 — California Fish and Game Commission Committee Meeting, 9 a.m. June 17 and 8:30 a.m. June 18, California Natural Resources Headquarters Building, Second Floor, 715 P Street, Sacramento (95814). The meeting will also be held via webinar/teleconference. For more information, visit the FGC website.

20 — Salt Marsh and Dunes Tour at Ballona Reserve, 10 a.m. to noon, 303 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey (90293). Explore the wonder of nature in the middle of urban Los Angeles! Friends of Ballona docents will lead the tour through the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve, teaching participants about its history and ecology. Enjoy all the special and unique native plants on the journey through different habitats. Participants might even meet some of the local wildlife. Parking and entrance gate are located behind Local Market. Registration is required. For more details about the event and to register, visit the event page.

20 — Walk-N-Wade Tour at Los Banos Wildlife Area, 9-11 a.m., Grasslands Environmental Education Center, 18110 Henry Miller Road, Los Banos (93635). Join CDFW for a family-friendly trail walk and pond tour at Los Banos Wildlife Area! Guests can use waders provided by the education center by reserving a spot on the tour. Reserve a spot by emailing losbanoswa@wildlife.ca.gov.

27 — Recreational Ocean Salmon Fishing Opens from Point Arena to Pigeon Point. The San Francisco Management Zone opens for recreational ocean salmon fishing with a regional harvest guideline of 34,900 Chinook. Inseason action may be taken to close open days when total harvest is approaching the area specific harvest guideline, with a minimum size limit of 20 inches total length. For more information, visit the Ocean Salmon web page or call either the CDFW Ocean Salmon Regulations Hotline at (707) 576-3429 or the National Marine Fisheries Service Ocean Salmon Regulations Hotline at (800) 662-9825. For questions, email ocean.salmon@wildlife.ca.gov.

27 — Community Habitat Restoration, 9:30 a.m. to noon, 303 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey (90293). Let’s roll up sleeves to help the Friends of Ballona Wetlands restore the last coastal wetland in Los Angeles. Get hands-on experience while learning about urban ecology. The time and effort put into clearing out invasive vegetation give slow-growing native plants room to thrive. Parking and entrance gate are located behind Local Market. Registration is required. For more details about the event and to register, visit the event page.

27 — Fiji Trail Invasive Plant Removal at Ballona Reserve, 9-11 a.m., 13730 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey (90292). Help CDFW remove invasive weeds in the public access trail known as the Fiji Trail in Area A. Get hands-on experience while learning about urban ecology with a chance to witness the beauty of the area’s flora and fauna. The time and effort put into clearing out invasive vegetation gives slow-growing native plants room to thrive. Parking is free on a first-come, first-served basis with an area to lock up bicycles. Registration will be on site consisting of a volunteer signup form/waiver. All ages are welcome, but minors will need a parent or guardian present at all times. For more information, email michael.schneider@wildlife.ca.gov.

27 — Learn to Fish at Brannan Island SRA, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Brannan Island State Recreation Area, Highway 160 south of Rio Vista. Join State Parks and CDFW at this Learn to Fish/Fishing in the City Program event at Brannan Island SRA. All ages are welcome, but ages 16 and over must present a valid fishing license. After arriving, drive straight back to the roundabout dead-end by the wooden pier and meet at the Picnic Area. For more information, visit the State Parks event page.

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Media Contact:
Amanda McDermott, CDFW Communications, (916) 738-9641

Multi-Agency Report Published Identifying Conservation Priorities for Western Monarch Butterfly

Wed, 06 May 2026 11:41:15 GMT

Sacramento – The California Multi-Agency Monarch and Pollinator Collaborative has published a report on the results of a years-long process to identify priority conservation actions and research needs for the western monarch butterfly. The “Conservation Priorities for the Western Monarch Butterfly in California” report, involving members of 13 state and federal agencies, marks a significant effort to address threats to the western monarch butterfly, whose population has declined catastrophically in recent years.

"Monarch recovery starts with restoring habitat, expanding native plants and aligning science with on-the-ground action across agencies and partners. This roadmap gives 13 state and federal entities — and the public — a shared path forward to help these iconic pollinators rebound," said Meghan Hertel, Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

“The western monarch’s journey is testament of their endurance. Their survival — as well as other pollinators — requires a collective, persistent effort to turn our landscapes into welcoming habitats,” said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “By leveraging shared resources and expertise, we can enhance monarch and pollinator conservation throughout the West Coast."

The report identifies five top-priority actions for the next three years:

Develop common monarch habitat definitions for the west
Track implementation and success of habitat projects
Centralize existing pollinator resources
Improve the availability of native plant materials
Develop a demographic model to help identify key vulnerabilities in the western monarch life cycle

Knowledge gaps recognized in the report include effects of pesticides on monarchs, conservation strategies on rangelands and the impacts of wildfire on monarch habitat. The Collaborative also identified the need to improve coordination with California Native American tribes for pollinator conservation efforts across the state.

“This report lays out a roadmap for addressing some of the key challenges for monarchs and other pollinators that we depend on to support our ecosystems and food supply. It is important to see how agriculture can be part of the solution,” said California Department of Food and Agriculture Secretary Karen Ross.

“Pollinators are essential to California grown foods like strawberries, grapes and almonds and agricultural production across the country,” said Paul Souza, Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Pacific Southwest Region. “This report supports voluntary, science-based conservation across the landscape with a variety of partners — from national wildlife refuges and state parks to highways, farms and ranches. We are committed to working with the State of California and local communities to identify innovative opportunities that advance pollinator conservation, including for the iconic monarch butterfly.”

“Caltrans’ engagement in the Collaborative and enrollment in the Monarch Candidate Conservation Agreement demonstrates our ongoing commitment to the conservation of monarch butterflies. Caltrans is actively implementing conservation actions that positively impact monarchs and their habitats, ensuring that our efforts contribute to the long-term survival of pollinator species,” said Dina El-Tawansy, Director of the California Department of Transportation.

To read the full report or learn more, visit the California Multi-Agency Monarch and Pollinator Collaborative page.

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Media Contacts:
Steve Gonzalez, CDFW Communications, (916) 215-3848
Hillary Sardinas, CDFW Pollinator Coordinator, (916) 387-5148

May 2026 California Department of Fish and Wildlife Calendar

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 15:30:11 GMT

Juvenile fall-run Chinook salmon at the Nimbus Fish Hatchery in Sacramento County. CDFW photo by Travis VanZant.

All calendar items are subject to change.

Various Days — Kokanee Salmon at Stampede Reservoir, CA-89, Truckee. In May 2025, 50,000 kokanee fingerlings with clipped adipose fins were released into Stampede Reservoir. Anglers who catch kokanee from now through 2028 are encouraged to report their catch, whether the fish has a clipped fin or not. Your reports help CDFW understand how stocking contributes to the kokanee fishery. For more information, visit CDFW’s Fishing for Kokanee page or contact rachel.fichman@wildlife.ca.gov.

1 — Community Habitat Restoration, 3-5 p.m., 303 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey (90293). Let’s roll up sleeves and help the Friends of Ballona Wetlands restore the last coastal wetlands in Los Angeles. Get hands-on experience while learning about urban ecology. Clearing out invasive vegetation gives slow-growing native plants room to thrive. Parking and entrance gate are located behind Local Market. Registration is required. For more information and to register, visit the event page.

2 — Fishing in the City Clinic, 8 a.m. to noon, Granite Regional Park, 8200 Ramona Ave., Sacramento (95826). Do you know a kid eager to catch fish? Great, because it’s catfish season in Sacramento! Join CDFW at Youth Beginner Fishing Clinics, held monthly at local parks through September. These free fishing clinics are for beginners ages 5-15 to learn the basics of fishing, casting, conservation and more. Everything needed is provided, and clinics are held rain or shine. To learn more about Fishing in the City and to register for a Sacramento area clinic, visit the Sacramento Fishing in the City page. To learn more about opportunities in other areas, visit CDFW’s Fishing in the City page.

3 — Salt Marsh and Dunes Tour at Ballona Reserve, 10 a.m. to noon, 303 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey (90293). Explore the wonder of nature in the middle of urban Los Angeles! Friends of Ballona docents will lead the tour through the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve and teach participants about its history and ecology. Enjoy all the special and unique native plants on the journey through different habitats. Participants might even meet some of the local wildlife. Parking and entrance gate are located behind Local Market. Registration is required. For more information and to register, visit the event page.

3 — City of Davis Wetlands Tour, 9 a.m. to noon, 45400 County Road 28H, Woodland (95776). Yolo Basin Foundation offers tours of the City of Davis Wetlands, located at the City of Davis Wastewater Treatment Plant. These tours offer a great outdoor experience to learn more about local and migratory bird species, mammals and native ecosystems. It is also an excellent opportunity for photography. Prepare for unpredictable weather by dressing in layers and bringing a water bottle. For more information and to register, visit the Wetland Tours page.

4 – Archery-only Spring Wild Turkey and Additional Junior Spring Turkey Seasons Open (archery-only spring wild turkey extends through May 18). For more information on upland game bird seasons and limits, visit the Upland Game Bird Hunting page.

5-6 — California Fish and Game Commission Committee Meeting: Marine Protected Area Petitions and Inland Sport Fishing, 8 a.m., Hilton Garden Inn, 6878 Hollister Ave., Goleta (93117). The meeting will also be held via webinar/teleconference. For more information, visit the FGC website.

9 — Guided Tour of the Nimbus Fish Hatchery, 11 a.m., 2001 Nimbus Road, Gold River (95670). Join CDFW for a free, family-friendly, guided tour to explore the Nimbus Fish Hatchery and neighboring American River on the second Saturday of each month (please note no tours will be held June-Aug. due to our summer closure). Learn about the amazing life cycle of salmon and steelhead, walk along the American River and discuss hatchery operations. Participants may see fish and other wildlife, such as migratory birds, signs of mammal activity and cool insects. The maximum group size is 25 people, first-come, first-served. Tours are cancelled in heavy rain/extreme heat. The tour is ADA accessible and suitable for all ages. For more information, call (916) 358-2884 or email Molly.Shea@wildlife.ca.gov.

9 — Ballona Creek Cleanup at Ballona Reserve, 9:30 a.m. to noon, 303 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey (90293). Help the Friends of Ballona Wetlands clean up the last coastal wetland in Los Angeles. Did you know that 130 square miles of storm drain flow into Ballona Creek? Gutter trash from as far away as North Hollywood can end up right in the wetlands. The time and effort put into clearing out debris means less trash in the wetlands, on beaches and in the open ocean. Parking and entrance gate are located behind Local Market. Registration is required. For more information and to register, visit the event page.

9 — Fiji Trail Invasive Plant Removal at Ballona Reserve, 9-11 a.m., 13730 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey (90292). Help CDFW remove invasive weeds in the public access trail known as the Fiji Trail in Area A. Get hands-on experience while learning about urban ecology with a chance to witness the beauty of the area’s flora and fauna. The time and effort put into clearing out invasive vegetation gives slow-growing native plants room to thrive. Parking is free on a first-come, first-served basis with an area to lock up bicycles. Registration will be on site consisting of a volunteer signup form/waiver. All ages are welcome, but minors will need a parent or guardian present at all times. For more information, email Michael.Schneider@wildlife.ca.gov.

9 — San Joaquin Hatchery Community Planting Day, 9 a.m. to noon, Friant Interactive Nature Site, 3735 E Flemming Street, Friant (93626). Join CDFW for a hands-on native planting and invasive plant removal volunteer day. The day will also feature a discussion of the iNaturalist app and how to use it to identify native plants and conclude with a tour of the San Joaquin Hatchery. For more information and to register, visit the event page or email Rachel.Sapper@wildlife.ca.gov.

14 — California Fish and Game Commission Wildlife Resources Meeting, 8:30 a.m., California Natural Resources Headquarters Building, 715 P Street, Second Floor, Sacramento (95814). The meeting will also be held via webinar/teleconference. For more information, visit the FGC website.

15 — Community Habitat Restoration, 3-5 p.m., 303 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey (90293). Let’s roll up sleeves and help the Friends of Ballona Wetlands restore the last coastal wetlands in Los Angeles. Get hands-on experience while learning about urban ecology. Clearing out invasive vegetation gives slow-growing native plants room to thrive. Parking and entrance gate are located behind Local Market. Registration is required. For more details about the event and to register, visit the event page.

16 — Salt Marsh and Dunes Tour at Ballona Reserve, 10 a.m. to noon, 303 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey (90293). Explore the wonder of nature in the middle of urban Los Angeles! Friends of Ballona docents will lead the tour through the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve and teach participants about its history and ecology. Enjoy all the special and unique native plants on the journey through different habitats. Participants might even meet some of the local wildlife. Parking and entrance gate are located behind Local Market. Registration is required. For more information and to register, visit the event page.

16 — Birdwatching at Los Banos Wildlife Area, 9 a.m., 18110 Henry Miller Ave., Los Banos (93635). This event will start with a brief introduction of the Merlin Bird ID app and a history of Los Banos Wildlife Area as a migratory bird area. Participants will then be taken to different viewing points to look for and log bird species.

17 — Tot Time at Nimbus Fish Hatchery, 11 a.m., 2001 Nimbus Road, Gold River (95670). Join CDFW for Tot Time every third Sunday of the month at the Nimbus Fish Hatchery Visitor’s Center for nature-themed stories and to create fun crafts! Please note there will be no Tot Time June-Aug. due to our summer closure. Recommended for children ages 2-7 years, with parent/guardian supervision. There is no cost for these events and registration is not required. For more information, email Molly.Shea@wildlife.ca.gov.

19 — California Fish and Game Commission Committee Meeting: Marine Protected Area Petitions, 8 a.m., Holiday Inn Express, 35 Via Pico Plaza, San Clemente (92672). The meeting will also be held via webinar/teleconference. For more information, visit the FGC website.

23 — Learn to Fish at Brannan Island SRA, 9 a.m. to noon, Brannan Island State Recreation Area, Highway 160 south of Rio Vista. Join State Parks and CDFW at this Learn to Fish/Fishing in the City Program event at Brannan Island SRA. All ages are welcome, but ages 16 and over must present a valid fishing license. After arriving, drive straight back to the roundabout dead-end by the wooden pier. For more information, visit the State Parks event page.

23 — Community Habitat Restoration, 9:30 a.m. to noon, 303 Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey (90293). Let’s roll up sleeves and help the Friends of Ballona Wetlands restore the last coastal wetlands in Los Angeles. Get hands-on experience while learning about urban ecology. Clearing out invasive vegetation gives slow-growing native plants room to thrive. Parking and entrance gate are located behind Local Market. Registration is required. For more details about the event and to register, visit the event page.

23 — Fiji Trail Invasive Plant Removal at Ballona Reserve, 9-11 a.m., 13730 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey (90292). Help CDFW remove invasive weeds in the public access trail known as the Fiji Trail in Area A. Get hands-on experience while learning about urban ecology with a chance to witness the beauty of the area’s flora and fauna. The time and effort put into clearing out invasive vegetation gives slow-growing native plants room to thrive. Parking is free on a first-come, first-served basis with an area to lock up bicycles. Registration will be on site consisting of a volunteer signup form/waiver. All ages are welcome, but minors will need a parent or guardian present at all times. For more information, email Michael.Schneider@wildlife.ca.gov.

28 — California Wildlife Conservation Board Meeting, 10 a.m., Natural Resources Agency Headquarters, First Floor Auditorium, 715 P Street, Sacramento (95814). The public is welcome. For more information, please visit WCB webpage.

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Media Contact:
Amanda McDermott, CDFW Communications, (916) 738-9641

California Fish and Game Commission Increases Bear Harvest Limit to 2, Hears Recommendations on MPA Petitions

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 09:49:05 GMT

Statewide Bear Harvest Cap Remains at 1,700; Public Discussion on MPA Petitions to Continue at Upcoming Regional Meetings

The California Fish and Game Commission (Commission) adopted amendments to black bear hunting regulations at its April 15-16 meeting, raising the bear harvest limit to two. The Commission also heard the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) presentation on its evaluation of 10 petitions proposing modifications to or creation of new marine protected areas (MPA). CDFW evaluated the petitions based on the best available science and using the Commission-approved MPA petition evaluation framework, recommending the Commission deny the petitions or grant in concept while offering non-regulatory pathways to achieve some of the petitioned goals.

In addition to action allowing up to two bear hunting license tags in a year, the Commission adopted regulation amendments redefining hunt area boundaries to include the entirety of Lassen and Modoc counties. No change was proposed to the 1,700-bear harvest threshold that was last reached in 2012, and if reached this year, would close the season. CDFW scientists expect the regulation changes to result in the take of 100 to 200 more bears each season out of a population estimated at about 60,000 across the state’s bear habitats.

MPA Petitions

The 10 MPA petitions before commissioners last week are among 20 received in 2023; five of those the Commission has acted on, while evaluations are in development for the other five that are tribally led or co-led.

The 10 MPA petitions propose actions that aim to protect kelp, eelgrass and other habitats and species through regulatory changes, including fishing restrictions and MPA boundary expansion. Other petitions propose regulatory changes to open MPA waters to certain recreational or commercial fisheries.

CDFW’s evaluations and recommendations regarding the 10 MPA petitions, along with public comment thus far received by the Commission, lay the foundation for public dialogue that will be facilitated through three regional meetings April 21 in San Mateo, May 5-6 in Goleta and May 19 in San Clemente. For more information about those meetings, visit the Commission website; the MPA petitions are available online (PDF).

Central Valley and Klamath River Basin Sportfishing Regulations

CDFW staff presented recommendations on amendments to Central Valley and Klamath River Basin sportfishing regulations. Those presentations are available to be viewed online. The Commission is slated to make a decision on the proposed amendments at a May 6 adoption hearing.

CESA Candidacy

Songbirds LeConte’s thrasher and Bendire’s thrasher were named California Endangered Species Act candidate species and will undergo a one-year species status review. The Commission found sufficient information that listing the birds as either threatened or endangered may be warranted due to declining populations as a result of threats, including habitat loss, disease and climate change. The thrashers are native to the American Southwest; some 4,400 adult Bendire’s thrashers and 37,000 adult LeConte’s thrashers are estimated to inhabit California.

The Commission also considered CESA candidacy for the western spadefoot frog that faces threats, including loss of habitat and habitat connectivity and climate change. Petitioner Center for Biological Diversity and the Large-scale Solar Association requested the matter be continued to allow more time for environmental advocates and the solar industry to collaborate on proposing exceptions to CESA protections that would be allowed under Fish and Game Code Section 2084. The Commissioners granted the request, pushing western spadefoot CESA candidacy consideration to its June meeting.

Meeting Participation and Next Meeting

Commission President Eric Sklar, Vice President Darius Anderson and Commissioners Jacque Hostler-Carmesin, Samantha Murray and Erica Zavaleta were in attendance for both days of the April Commission meeting held in Sacramento.

The complete agenda for the meeting, along with supporting information, is available on the Commission website. Archived video of past Commission meetings is available online. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Commission is scheduled for June 17-18, 2026, at the California Natural Resources Agency building in Sacramento. Participants are encouraged to attend in person, with options available for Zoom or phone; for more information visit the Commission website.

The Commission authorized public notice of upcoming potential regulation changes related to:

Inland and marine sport fishing regulations (PDF): A discussion hearing is scheduled for June 17-18 and an adoption hearing Aug. 12-13 on proposed inland and marine sport fishing regulations. The proposed amendments are related to fishing gear, measuring and sampling restrictions, changes to low-flow fishing regulations and steelhead fishing report and restoration cards. The proposed amendments also involve increased fishing opportunities and protective changes for vulnerable fish populations.

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Media Contacts:
Steve Gonzalez, CDFW Communications, (916) 825-7120
Jen Benedet, CDFW Communications, (916) 202-4465