CDFW Newshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/NewsGrant Awarded to Conserve Over 27,000 Acres in San Luis Obispo County, Protect Threatened and Endangered Specieshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/grant-awarded-to-restore-over-27000-acres-in-san-luis-obispo-county-protect-threatened-and-endangered-speciesWildlife Conservation BoardFri, 16 Feb 2024 12:55:43 GMTThe Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) provided a $10.3 million grant to The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County (LCSLO) to protect approximately 27,500 acres of grassland, blue oak savannah, shrubland and riparian corridors. The work will protect habitat for 299 animal species and 250 native plant species, including Camatta Canyon amole plant, San Joaquin kit fox, Bell’s vireo and blunt-nosed leopard lizard among others.<p class="tagline"><em>Wildlife Conservation Board Awards Nearly $100 Million in Grants to 31 Habitat Conservation and Restoration Projects </em></p> <p>The Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) provided a $10.3 million grant to The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County (LCSLO) to protect approximately 27,500 acres of grassland, blue oak savannah, shrubland and riparian corridors. The work will protect habitat for 299 animal species and 250 native plant species, including Camatta Canyon amole plant, San Joaquin kit fox, Bell’s vireo and blunt-nosed leopard lizard among others. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7minKu2ySgQ" target="_blak">The Camatta Ranch project - YouTube (Video)</a> will also provide connectivity to protected land, open space and wildlife corridors extending from Carrizo Plain National Monument to the south and Big Sur to the north.</p> <p>"In the heart of California's Central Coast, the beautiful and diverse Camatta Ranch stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of a family and the power of partnerships to ensure its protection,” said Kaila Dettman, executive director for The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County. “By conserving this working cattle ranch, composed of rolling grasslands, majestic oaks, and habitat for myriad wildlife species, we won’t just protect a 27,512-acre piece of land, but a critical wildlife corridor and refuge for those who visit. This project would not be possible without the support of the Wildlife Conservation Board and its commitment to protecting our wild places and working lands; we are deeply grateful to WCB and the people of California.”</p> <p>WCB approved approximately $100 million in grants to 31 projects at its Feb. 15, 2024, quarterly meeting that will help restore and protect fish and wildlife habitat throughout California. The grants will support Governor Newsom’s goal of conserving 30% of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030, an initiative known as 30x30. The initiative seeks to protect biodiversity, expand access to nature for all Californians and address climate change.</p> <p>Other funded projects include:</p> <ul> <li>A $5 million grant to The California Council of Land Trusts (CCLT) for a collaboration with the Land Trust Alliance. This proposal is for a collaborative block grant to initiate the California Onward Capacity Building and Grant Program for land trusts and their partners. This program will engage, train and equip California land trusts and their partners, with a focus on disadvantaged communities and California Native American Communities, to accelerate the pace, scale, diversity and durability of real property conservation throughout California.</li> </ul> <p>“CCLT is elated and grateful to receive this funding from WCB to launch the California Onward Capacity Building and Grant Program,” said Bridget Fithian, board chair for the CCLT. “Land trusts in California work diligently to conserve and restore land throughout the state but need additional resources to help realize the ambitious goals as set forth in the Governor’s 30x30 initiative. The land trust community is poised to conserve another 3.5 million acres of forests, chaparral, wetlands, grasslands, deserts, coastal habitats, and working lands by 2030. With the State partnership represented by this grant, we are much closer to making this goal a reality.”</p> <ul> <li>$16 million in grants to the Santa Clara Valley Habitat Agency (SCVHA) for the acquisition of two properties in Santa Clara County for the protection and preservation of nearly 3,000 combined acres. SCVHA will acquire The Conservation Fund’s interest in the 1,073-acre O’Connell Ranch which includes extensive annual grassland, blue oak woodland, mixed oak woodland, northern mixed chaparral and Central California sycamore alluvial woodland areas which support elk, mountain lion, San Joaquin kit fox and California red-legged frog near Gilroy.</li> </ul> <p>SCVHA will also acquire 1,902 acres of land at Lakeside Ranch for the protection and preservation of existing regional wildlife linkages and special status species occurrences, as well as rare serpentine plant communities, grasslands, oak woodlands, pond and riparian habitat areas within the Santa Clara Valley Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan, located west of Morgan Hill.</p> <p>“Without WCB funding, there isn’t the certainty our NGO [non-governmental organization] partners need to proceed with the O’Connell and Lakeside Ranch acquisitions,” said Edmund Sullivan, executive officer for the Santa Clara Valley Habitat Agency. “WCB is a critical, I would argue invaluable, funding partner ensuring the successful implementation of the Santa Clara Valley NCCP.”</p> <ul> <li>A $5.5 million grant to the Ore-Cal Resource Conservation and Development Council to identify suitable locations for wildlife crossing features and develop Caltrans documentation, environmental review and designs for up to two wildlife crossing structures for mule deer, mountain lions and wolves across Interstate 5 near Hornbrook in Siskiyou County. According to the UC Davis Road Ecology Center, this stretch of I-5 ranks among the most problematic highways in California for wildlife mortality.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>A $5.8 million grant to the City of Los Angeles for a cooperative project with Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy to complete the first step in restoring Southern California steelhead passage in the channelized portion of the Los Angeles River by installing a roughened and meandering channel, water velocity reduction features, resting pockets for migrating fish and vegetative habitat in a quarter mile stretch of the river in downtown Los Angeles.</li> </ul> <p>“This project will help lay the groundwork for future modifications to the current lined and channelized LA River to determine how it can provide habitat and safe migratory conditions for steelhead trout and other fish and wildlife species while also meeting the strict flood control requirements of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and preserving the same level of flood risk,” said Evann Gonzales, civil engineering associate for the City of Los Angeles. “The WCB plays the cornerstone role in funding this urban steelhead river restoration project.”</p> <ul> <li>A $4.26 million grant to the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy for a cooperative project, known as One Tam Forest Conservation, with the California Department of Parks and Recreation, the National Parks Service and Marin Municipal Water District for forest health treatments on approximately 1,100 acres to increase forest health and biodiversity while decreasing vulnerability to wildfire and climate change on several properties in Marin County.”</li> </ul> <p>“In 2023, the One Tam partners released the <a href="https://www.onetam.org/forest-health" target="_blank">Marin Regional Forest Health Strategy</a>, a plan that brings together community engagement, environmental justice, anticipated climate change impacts and best available science to offer insight in how to protect and improve forest health and resilience in Marin County over the next decade,” said Danny Franco, Senior Project Manager, Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy. “Support from the Wildlife Conservation Board Forest Conservation Program will help One Tam put the Marin Regional Forest Health Strategy into action, and the resources provided by WCB will enable the Parks Conservancy to work with our One Tam partners to implement significant forest and woodland stewardship actions in key areas throughout the County.”</p> <p>For more information about the WCB, please visit <a href="https://wcb.ca.gov/" target="_blank">wcb.ca.gov</a>.</p> <p><em><strong>Photo of the Camatta Ranch grassland valleys courtesy of The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County.</strong></em></p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:Mark.Topping@wildlife.ca.gov">Mark Topping</a>, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 539-4673<br /> <a href="mailto:Rebecca.Fris@wildlife.ca.gov">Jennifer</a> Norris, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 213-3023</em></p> CDFW Takes Steps to Return Land to California Tribehttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/cdfw-takes-steps-to-return-land-to-california-tribeWCBWed, 29 Nov 2023 14:41:58 GMTAfter years of discussion, CDFW will transfer 40-plus acres of the historic Mount Whitney Fish Hatchery in Inyo County to the Fort Independence Indian Community which is recognized as one distinct separate tribal government of the four Owens Valley Paiute Tribes.<p>After years of discussion, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) will transfer 40+ acres of the historic Mount Whitney Fish Hatchery in Inyo County to the Fort Independence Indian Community, which is recognized as one distinct separate tribal government of the four Owens Valley Paiute Tribes. The <a href="/News/Archive/grant-awarded-to-restore-los-angeles-zoo-oak-woodland-habitat-by-engaging-participants-from-disadvantaged-communities#gsc.tab=0">Wildlife Conservation Board approved</a> the no-cost transfer last week and will complete the transaction in early 2024. The transfer will mark CDFW’s first ever land return to a California Tribe.</p> <p>“This act is momentous and aligns with many ambitions laid out for California by this Administration,” said CDFW Director Charlton H. Bonham. “It honors Governor Newsom’s Executive Order encouraging the transfer of excess lands to California Native American tribes and it is a Nature Based Solution that contributes to the goals of 30x30. I am proud to be a part of this transfer.”</p> <p>The historic hatchery structures, residences and other buildings cover approximately 19 acres. The remaining 21+ acres have native plant vegetation including shrubland, and oak and willow riparian habitat adjacent to Oak Creek. Willow flycatcher, a special-status species, is known to use property as habitat.</p> <p>“Water is an integral part of Paiute culture, history and social structure,” said Tribal Chairman Carl Dahlberg. “Our Indigenous Paiute members settled on the banks of the Oak Creek since time immemorial and these lands have always been sacred to our people. Our worldview values the delicate ecosystem which connects us to this land which traditionally was a cultivation site for indigenous plants, such as taboose and nahavita. This property is inextricably intwined into who we are as Paiute people and we hope to bring this knowledge and history back to the community through the preservation of the Mount Whitney Fish Hatchery.”</p> <p>Owned by CDFW since 1916, the hatchery historically produced different trout species for planting until whirling disease was discovered there in 1984. Because the disease does not infect eggs, production of trout eggs continued there until 2007. In July 2008, the property was severely damaged from flood and mudslide and temporarily closed to the public. An interpretive center operated by the Friends of Mount Whitney Fish Hatchery remains open today. The Tribe is committed to protecting wildlife habitats and native plants, using the resources prudently and making the property open to all.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contact:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:Jordan.Traverso@wildlife.ca.gov">Jordan Traverso</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 212-7352</em></p> Grant Awarded to Restore Los Angeles Zoo Oak Woodland Habitat by Engaging Participants from Disadvantaged Communitieshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/grant-awarded-to-restore-los-angeles-zoo-oak-woodland-habitat-by-engaging-participants-from-disadvantaged-communitiesWildlife Conservation BoardThu, 16 Nov 2023 15:28:14 GMTThe Wildlife Conservation Board provided a $3.6 million grant to Outward Bound Adventures, Inc. to restore approximately six acres of oak woodland habitat adjacent to the Los Angeles Zoo. The Los Angeles Zoo Oak Woodland Restoration and Career Pathways project will strengthen oak woodland health and biodiversity for long-term resilience by restoring an ecosystem that can serve to mitigate the impacts of climate change through carbon sequestration.<p><em><strong>Wildlife Conservation Board Awards $116.6 million in Grants to 37 Habitat Conservation and Restoration Projects</strong></em></p> <p>The Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) provided a $3.6 million grant to Outward Bound Adventures, Inc. (OBA) to restore approximately six acres of oak woodland habitat adjacent to the Los Angeles Zoo. The Los Angeles Zoo Oak Woodland Restoration and Career Pathways project will strengthen oak woodland health and biodiversity for long-term resilience by restoring an ecosystem that can serve to mitigate the impacts of climate change through carbon sequestration.</p> <p>The work will be undertaken through a unique partnership between the Zoo and OBA, the oldest non-profit in the nation created and dedicated to providing outdoor education, conservation and environmental learning expeditions for low-income urban youth from diverse communities in Los Angeles.</p> <p>“Restoration initiatives like the OBA/Zoo Oak Woodland restoration project have tremendous impact not only in the oak woodland habitat and plant community, but it will have unparalleled impact in the low-income communities of color who will be engaged to do the restoration through a conservation education workforce development program,” said Charles Thomas Jr., Executive Director, Outward Bound Adventures, Inc. “This will promote ownership, stewardship and career training in a community that has historically been absent in conservation.”</p> <p>Through the restoration of this oak woodland habitat, we will be providing important resources for native pollinators, birds, and other wildlife; informing future restoration activities through rigorous science; and providing the leaders of tomorrow with experience needed to pursue careers in conservation,” said Jake Owens, Conservation Director at the Los Angeles Zoo.</p> <p>WCB approved approximately $116.6 million in grants to 37 projects at its Nov. 15, 2023, quarterly meeting that will help restore and protect fish and wildlife habitat throughout California. The grants will support Governor Newsom’s goal of conserving 30 percent of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030, an initiative known as 30x30. The initiative seeks to protect biodiversity, expand access to nature for all Californians and address climate change.</p> <p>Other funded projects include:</p> <ul> <li>A $30 million U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Habitat Conservation Plan Land Acquisition grant for a cooperative project, <a href="/Lands/Places-to-Visit/Rancho-Jamul-ER">Rancho Jamul Ecological Reserve, Expansion 6</a>, with The Nature Conservancy to acquire approximately 1,291 acres of land located just north of Otay Lakes within Proctor Valley in San Diego County for the protection of coastal sage scrub habitat that supports listed species, wildlife movement corridors and key regional wildlife linkages within the San Diego Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan. It will also provide future wildlife-oriented, public-use opportunities. <blockquote>"Preventing biodiversity loss is critical to a healthy California, and this investment significantly protects core habitat including many endemic species like the golden eagle and endangered quino checkerspot butterfly,” said Cara Lacey, Climate Program Associate Director at the Nature Conservancy California. “Conserving this landscape not only helps keep habitat connected for vulnerable species but will also benefit people with an expansive urban refuge in San Diego County.”</blockquote> </li> <li>The transfer of approximately 40 acres of land by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to Fort Independence Indian Community of Paiute Indians of the Fort Independence Reservation to own, operate, and maintain the <a href="/Fishing/Hatcheries/Mount-Whitney">Mount Whitney Fish Hatchery</a> in perpetuity for purposes of public access and habitat preservation. The Mount Whitney Fish Facility is in the city of Independence in Inyo County.</li> <li>A $1.5 million grant to Mendocino Land Trust to restore pollinator habitat along the southern Mendocino County coast with a particular focus on restoring habitat for the federally endangered Behren’s silverspot butterfly (BSB). The <a href="https://www.mendocinolandtrust.org/our-mission/saving-wildlife-habitat/" target="_blank">Coastal Mendocino Pollinator Habitat Enhancement</a> project will restore a combined 53.4 acres of coastal prairie habitat, with a focus of planting highly dense patches of early blue violets, at Navarro Point, Manchester State Park (MSP), Point Arena-Stornetta Unit and Pelican Bluffs. Additionally, 47 acres of invasive European beachgrass will be removed at MSP, allowing the native dune mat to reestablish. <blockquote>“Members of our diverse working group all specialize in supporting each part of these insects' complex life cycles,” said Anna Bride, Stewardship Project Manager, Coastal Mendocino Land Trust. “From captive rearing and release efforts of the BSB to early blue violet restoration, we're all passionate about these little organisms and their place in the greater ecosystems of our region.”</blockquote> </li> <li>A $14.8 million grant to the Western Riverside Regional Conservation Authority (RCA) to acquire approximately 670 acres of land at B Canyon for the protection of critical wildlife habitat and a movement corridor that supports many special status species including the Southern California/Central Coast Evolutionary Significant Unit mountain lion population in the Santa Ana Mountains, and to provide future wildlife-oriented, public-use opportunities located in unincorporated Riverside County. <blockquote>“This linkage is a key component of the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan reserve system and exemplifies the integration of good planning for our environment and infrastructure,” said Natasha Johnson, Chair of the RCA Board of Directors. “Conserving B Canyon south of the existing undercrossing at State Route 91 preserves a critical linkage between Cleveland National Forest and Chino Hills State Park, providing mountain lions and other wildlife the movement corridors and habitat they need to thrive.”</blockquote> </li> <li>A $1.9 million grant to the Transition Habitat Conservancy for a project to study the effects of using a broad range of tortoise conservation tools and techniques to enhance tortoise survival at known tortoise hotspots, located approximately six miles west of Boron in San Bernardino County. <blockquote>“In response to the ongoing decline of desert tortoises, the <a href="https://hardshelllabs.com/overview/conservation" target="_blank">Desert Tortoise Conservation Innovations</a> project will apply a wide array of cutting-edge conservation actions with long-term monitoring to assess their effectiveness,” said Tim Shields, Founder and CEO of HardShell Labs, Inc. “Tortoises in the study area will benefit from habitat enhancements and raven predation reduction but, more importantly, the innovative combination of actions will serve to inform tortoise conservation efforts across the range well into the future.”</blockquote> </li> <li>A $4 million grant to the Wildlands Conservancy (TWC) to acquire approximately 8,085 acres of land at <a href="https://wildlandsconservancy.org/behold-the-beauty-association-news/introducing-eel-river-canyon-preserve" target="_blank">Lone Pine Ranch</a>. This land will be added to and managed by TWC’s approximately 18,575-acre Eel River Canyon Preserve. The acquisition will protect the oak woodlands, freshwater creeks, grasslands, ponds, marshes, riverine habitat, and conifer forests that support numerous wildlife species. TWC will provide free access for passive recreation and interpretive activities. This is the fourth and final phase of the acquisition of Lone Pine Ranch. WCB will have provided nearly $20 million toward three of the four phases, permanently protecting 26,412 acres located in the rural area south of the community of Kettenpom in Trinity County. <blockquote>“We are honored to receive support today from the Wildlife Conservation Board to complete the protection of the Eel River Canyon Preserve lying along over 18 miles of one of the wildest and most scenic river canyons in the country,” said Frazier Haney, Executive Director of the Wildlands Conservancy. “The preserve will serve as the keystone to our larger vision for an ‘Eel River Emerald Necklace’ of preserved lands stretching along the river, protecting wildlife and habitat, providing access to hike, paddle and camp along the future Great Redwood Trail, and engaging local communities.”</blockquote> </li> </ul> <p>For more information about the WCB, please visit the <a href="https://wcb.ca.gov/" target="_blank">WCB website</a>.</p> <p><em>Photo of Outward Bound Adventures, Inc., conservation workforce interns at the Los Angeles Zoo Oak Woodland Restoration site courtesy of Jake Owens.</em></p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:Mark.Topping@wildlife.ca.gov">Mark Topping</a>, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 539-4673<br /> <a href="mailto:rebecca.fris@wildlife.ca.gov">Rebecca Fris</a>, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 212-5637</em></p> Wildlife Conservation Board Names Jennifer Norris Executive Directorhttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/wildlife-conservation-board-names-jennifer-norris-executive-directorWildlife Conservation BoardMon, 16 Oct 2023 10:38:37 GMTThe Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) today announced Dr. Jennifer Norris as its new Executive Director.<p><em><strong>California Natural Resources Agency Deputy Secretary Becomes First Female Executive Director in 76-Year History of WCB</strong></em></p> <p>The Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) today announced Dr. Jennifer Norris as its new Executive Director.</p> <p>“I’m thrilled for the Wildlife Conservation Board and Dr. Norris,” said California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot. “The Board’s work has never been more important as we aim to conserve 30 percent of California’s lands by 2030, protect our world-renowned biodiversity, expand equitable access to the great outdoors, and better manage our lands to combat climate change. Dr. Norris’ remarkable career as a federal scientist delivering innovative conservation projects at scale, combined with her recent leadership enabling such projects to happen more quickly and effectively through state agencies, makes her the perfect leader to guide the Board into the future. I’m excited about what the Board will accomplish under Dr. Norris’ leadership.”</p> <p>Norris arrives from the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) where she served as Deputy Secretary for Biodiversity and Habitat since 2020. At CNRA, Norris led <a href="https://www.californianature.ca.gov/pages/30x30" target="_blank">California’s 30x30 initiative</a> to conserve 30 percent of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030 and oversaw the <a href="https://resources.ca.gov/Initiatives/Cutting-Green-Tape" target="_blank">Cutting Green Tape initiative</a> to accelerate the pace and scale of ecological restoration.</p> <figure class="img-left" style="width:"><img alt="Portrait of Jennifer Norris" src="/Portals/0/Images/OCEO/News/JenniferNorrisPortrait.jpg" /> <figcaption><strong>Dr. Jennifer Norris</strong></figcaption> </figure> <p>“Over its 76-year history, the Wildlife Conservation Board has made an indelible mark on biodiversity protection in California,” said Norris. “I am incredibly honored to be chosen to lead WCB in a time when conservation is needed more than ever. I look forward to working with the outstanding Board and staff to expand partnerships with tribes and redefine outdoor equity, while protecting even more of California’s incredible nature.”</p> <p>When Norris assumes her new role on November 1, she will manage day-to-day operations and support WCB’s seven-member Board, which consists of the Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the President of the Fish and Game Commission, the Director of the Department of Finance, and four public members.</p> <p>“As the first public member Chair in WCB’s history, the 75th Anniversary marks an unprecedented opportunity to build and expand on WCB’s conservation legacy,” said Alina Bokde, Chair of the Wildlife Conservation Board. “Jen is the right leader at the right time to envision and advance California’s conservation movement to be inclusive, diverse and lead with a bold focus on equity and access.”</p> <p>The primary responsibilities of WCB are to select, authorize and allocate funds for the protection, conservation, and restoration of fish and wildlife habitat and related public recreation. These investments have created recreational opportunities for millions of Californians, protected and created essential habitat for threatened and endangered species and preserved iconic landscapes for future generations to enjoy.</p> <p>In its 76-year history, WCB has had six executive directors, and Norris becomes the first female to fill the role. She replaces John Donnelly, who retired in March 2023. Norris has extensive experience in conservation policy, endangered species protection and ecosystem management. Prior to joining CNRA, she served as Supervisor of the Sacramento Office of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. She has held numerous roles in state and federal government over the years.</p> <p>Norris holds a bachelor’s degree in resources policy and planning from Cornell University, a master’s degree in conservation biology from the University of Michigan, and a Ph.D. in ecology from the University of New Mexico. A native of New York State, Norris lives in Sacramento with her husband Scott and occasionally sees their grown children Jessica and Daniel. For more information about the WCB, please visit <a href="https://wcb.ca.gov/" target="_blank">wcb.ca.gov</a>.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contact:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:Mark.Topping@wildlife.ca.gov">Mark Topping</a>, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 539-4673<br /> <a href="mailto:rebecca.fris@wildlife.ca.gov">Rebecca Fris</a>, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 212-5637</em></p> Grant Award Leads to Historic Acquisition by California’s First Black-led Land Conservation Organizationhttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/grant-award-leads-to-historic-acquisition-by-californias-first-black-led-land-conservation-organizationWCBThu, 31 Aug 2023 08:43:16 GMTThe Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) provided a $2.27 million grant to the 40 Acre Conservation League, California’s only Black-led conservation group, for the Tahoe Forest Gateway Leidesdorff Property in Placer County, a cooperative project with the Sierra Nevada Conservancy.<p><em>Wildlife Conservation Board Awards $163.5 million in Grants to 37 Habitat Conservation and Restoration Projects</em></p> <p>The Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) provided a $2.27 million grant to the 40 Acre Conservation League, California’s only Black-led conservation group, for the Tahoe Forest Gateway Leidesdorff Property in Placer County, a cooperative project with the Sierra Nevada Conservancy. The conservation group acquired approximately 650 acres of land near the Tahoe Lake area for the purposes of wildlife-oriented education and research, wildlife habitat preservation, restoration and management.</p> <p>The WCB approved approximately $163.5 million in grants to 37 projects at its Aug. 24, 2023, quarterly meeting that will help restore and protect fish and wildlife habitat throughout California. The grants will also provide new and improved public access, recreation and educational opportunities.</p> <p>“I am so thrilled that I was able to help secure $3 million for 40 Acre Conservation League’s first land acquisition,” said Assemblymember Mike A. Gipson (D-Carson). “This remarkable achievement is a gateway for more people of color to enter the conservancy space, and it demonstrates that when like-minded organizations unite for a common cause, they can achieve remarkable results. The $3 million secured for the 40 Acre Conservation League is not just a financial milestone; it is an investment in the future of our environment and a testament to the potential of dedicated conservationists working together.”</p> <p>Other funded projects include:</p> <ul> <li>A $779,000 grant to the Tongva Taraxat Paxaavxa Conservancy for a project to restore a sage scrub ecosystem in Altadena, Los Angeles County, that will serve as a valuable agricultural learning process for Tongva Community Members to revitalize culture, language and traditional land stewardship. This site will represent the first community-owned gathering space for the Tongva community since the Spanish Mission system in 1771.</li> </ul> <p>“This funding from WCB gives us, a Tongva-led land conservancy, an opportunity to start fresh,” said Tongva Taraxat Paxaavxa Conservancy, Land Return Coordinator Samantha Morales Johnson. “At Huhuunga, the first site since colonization returned to Tongvetam, over 90 percent of the plants present are non-native species. This first project with WCB allows us to remove invasive trees and pay Tongva people to remove the understory taking over our oak grove. This is a vital part of our community healing with the land, and we hope to continue to receive support toward more land returned and funding of California-Native led projects throughout the state.”</p> <ul> <li>An $8.7 million grant to the Big Sur Land Trust for a cooperative project with the Esselen Tribe of Monterey County to acquire 5,100 acres of land for the protection of riparian chaparral, oak woodland and perennial grassland habitats. The Basin Ranch property will be co-managed with the Esselen Tribe of Monterey County, who will provide access to other tribes in the region.</li> <li>A $5.8 million grant to the Regents of the University of California at Davis for a project to develop the plans, designs and environmental review necessary to create a wildlife crossing over Interstate 8 for Peninsular bighorn sheep in Imperial County that will allow bighorn sheep to safely continue their seasonal migrations. This has led the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to include this area as a “Top Priority,” for <a href="https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=204648&inline" target="_blank">Restoring California’s Wildlife Connectivity (PDF)</a>, which places it among the 12 barriers most in need of improvement throughout the state.</li> </ul> <p>"Wildlife in the desert are constantly stressed by drought and temperature and must move,” said Fraser Shilling, the director of UC Davis’ Road Ecology Center. “The Interstate 8 wildlife crossings will provide critical flexibility for the endangered Peninsular bighorn sheep and other wildlife to move more freely.”</p> <ul> <li>A $7 million grant to the Land Trust of Napa County for a cooperative project with the State Coastal Conservancy, Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation and The Conservation Fund to acquire 2,300 acres of land for the protection of wildlife habitat in response to climate change, expansion of wildlife corridors, restoration, wildlife-oriented education and future wildlife-oriented public use opportunities, located in the Napa River watershed.</li> </ul> <p>“Walt Ranch is a top priority for conservation,” said Doug Parker, president and CEO of Land Trust of Napa County. “It has everything – large size at 2,300 acres, adjacent to over 5,500 acres of existing protected land, several rare species, water resources including a municipal water supply, and it is located at the junction of two priority wildlife corridors.”</p> <ul> <li>A $12 million grant to the Los Angeles County Public Works to create engineering designs and permits to enhance and restore habitat for the unarmored three-spined stickleback and other rare, sensitive, threatened, and endangered riparian and aquatic species. Bouquet Creek Canyon, located five miles north of Santa Clarita within the Angeles National Forest, will receive other enhancements including increased water supply, sediment management and conveyance, flood protection and increased public access to multiple day-use areas and trails.</li> </ul> <p>For more information about the WCB, please visit <a href="https://wcb.ca.gov/">wcb.ca.gov</a>.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media contacts</strong>:<br /> <a href="mailto:Mark.Topping@wildlife.ca.gov">Mark Topping</a>, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 539-4673<br /> <a href="mailto:Rebecca.Fris@wildlife.ca.gov">Rebecca Fris</a>, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 212-5637</em></p> Wildlife Conservation Board Funds Environmental Improvement and Acquisition Projectshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/wildlife-conservation-board-funds-environmental-improvement-and-acquisition-projects6WildlifeFri, 17 Feb 2023 17:32:46 GMTAt its February 16, 2023, quarterly meeting, the Wildlife Conservation Board approved approximately $51.83 million in grants to help restore and protect fish and wildlife habitat throughout California.<p><strong>Wild ducks fly over the Kramer Ranch, part of a conservation easement to protect migratory bird habitat, seasonal upland wetlands, rangelands, grasslands and habitat linkages in Lassen and Modoc counties. Photo © Josh Vest.</strong></p> <p>At its February 16, 2023, quarterly meeting, the Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) approved approximately $51.83 million in grants to help restore and protect fish and wildlife habitat throughout California. Some of the 25 approved projects will benefit fish and wildlife -- including some endangered species -- while others will provide public access to important natural resources. Several projects will also demonstrate the importance of protecting working landscapes that integrate economic, social and environmental stewardship practices beneficial to the environment, landowners and the local community.</p> <p>Funding for these projects comes from a combination of sources including the state’s General Fund, Habitat Conservation Fund and bond measures approved by voters to help preserve and protect California’s natural resources.</p> <p>Some of the funded projects include:</p> <ul> <li>A $2.1 million grant to the Mid Klamath Watershed Council for a cooperative project with the State Coastal Conservancy, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to conduct prioritization, planning, design and permitting actions for 16 miles of high value waterways in the mid Klamath River basin where restoration activities following the removal of the Klamath Dam will benefit migratory salmonids and other aquatic species.</li> <li>A $1.27 million grant to the Montague Water Conservation District for a cooperative project with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to repair 1.19 miles of the Montague Water Conservation District’s Main Canal and to dedicate cold water annually for instream benefit to migratory salmonids and other aquatic species in the Shasta River in Siskiyou County.</li> <li>A $4.3 million grant augmentation to the Ventura County Watershed Protection District for a planning project that will complete final design plans for Matilija Dam removal and for three downstream levee construction and rehabilitation projects, which are essential components to support future restoration of the most productive and resilient spawning and rearing habitat for Southern California steelhead in support of the Matilija Dam Ecosystem Restoration Project located four miles northwest of the city of Ojai in Ventura County.</li> <li>A $4.9 million grant to the Resource Conservation District of the Santa Monica Mountains for a cooperative planning project with CDFW, State Coastal Conservancy, California Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks), and Caltrans to develop the technical studies, environmental review and outreach necessary to restore the Topanga Lagoon located within the third largest watershed that drains into the Santa Monica Bay and maintains a natural hydrologic regime that supports three native fish species and over 20 native amphibians, including a population of endangered tidewater goby and Southern California steelhead in Los Angeles County.</li> <li>A $1.35 million grant to California Rangeland Trust for a cooperative project with the Sierra Nevada Conservancy and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service to acquire a conservation easement over approximately 4,922 acres of land for the protection and preservation of stream flow, migratory bird habitat, seasonal upland wetlands, rangelands, grasslands and habitat linkages located near the community of Bieber in Lassen and Modoc counties.</li> <li>A $1.5 million grant to Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority to acquire approximately 88 acres of land for the protection of threatened and endangered habitat and to provide for future wildlife-oriented, public-use opportunities located near Malibu in Los Angeles County.</li> <li>A $1.97 million grant to the Friends of the Dunes for a cooperative project with the Tollowa Dunes Stewards, CDFW, State Parks, USFWS and the Tollowa Dee-ni’ Nation to remove non-native vegetation, restoring 17.8 acres of coastal dune, coastal prairie, open sandspit, estuarine and freshwater wetland habitat within the Lake Earl Wildlife Area in Del Norte County.</li> <li>An $11 million grant to Save the Redwoods League for a cooperative project with the National Park Service, State Parks and CAL FIRE to enhance forest health and reduce hazardous fuels through selective thinning on 1,000 acres of mixed conifer forest and four miles of road removal in Redwood National and State Parks in Humboldt and Del Norte counties.</li> <li>A $1.81 million grant to California Waterfowl Association for a cooperative project with CDFW to complete wetland, riparian and upland habitat enhancement at the Palo Verde Ecological Reserve located in the town of Blythe in Riverside County.</li> </ul> <p>For more information about the WCB please visit <a href="https://wcb.ca.gov/" target="_blank">wcb.ca.gov</a>.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:John.Donnelly@wildlife.ca.gov">John Donnelly</a>, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 445-8448<br /> <a href="mailto:jordan.traverso@wildlife.ca.gov">Jordan Traverso</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 212-7352</em></p> Wildlife Conservation Board Funds Environmental Improvement and Acquisition Projectshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/wildlife-conservation-board-funds-environmental-improvement-and-acquisition-projects5WCBWed, 25 Jan 2023 15:31:12 GMTWildlife Conservation Board Funds Environmental Improvement and Acquisition Projects<p><strong>A restored meadow along Yellow Creek in Tasmam Koyom (aka Humbug Valley) in Plumas County with Meadow Penstemon blooming in the foreground. Photo © Ryan Burnett.</strong></p> <p>At its Jan. 13, 2023 meeting, the Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) approved approximately $70.14 million in grants to help restore and protect fish and wildlife habitat throughout California. The three approved projects will benefit fish and wildlife through funding mechanisms that support biodiversity, watershed restoration, climate resiliency and working landscapes that integrate economic, social and environmental stewardship practices beneficial to the environment, landowners and the local community.</p> <p>Funding for these projects comes from the General Fund, Budget Act of 2022 and supports the 30x30 Initiative (the goal to conserve 30 percent of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030) and nature-based solutions.</p> <p>Funded projects:</p> <ul> <li>A $26 million grant to Point Blue Conservation Science for a cooperative project with local volunteer educators and students to implement wildlife habitat restoration on working lands in multiple counties across California.  </li> <li>A $24.73 million grant to Point Blue Conservation Science for a cooperative project with National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and Sierra Meadows Partnership to plan, implement and monitor meadow restoration in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountains spanning 23 California counties.  </li> <li>A $19.41 million grant to the California Association of Resource Conservation Districts for a cooperative project with California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the California Department of Food and Agriculture, California Department of Conservation, USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service and USFWS to expand monarch, pollinator and other wildlife habitat on public and private lands and to assist landowners in the implementation of carbon farm practices that create habitat and sequester carbon in multiple counties across California.</li> </ul> <p>For more information about the WCB please visit <a href="http://wcb.ca.gov" target="_blank">wcb.ca.gov</a>.</p> <p>###<br /> <em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:john.donnelly@wildlife.ca.gov">John Donnelly</a>, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 445-8448<br /> <a href="mailto:amanda.l.mcdermott@wildlife.ca.gov">Amanda McDermott</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 738-9641</em><br />  </p> Wildlife Conservation Board Funds Environmental Improvement and Acquisition Projectshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/wildlife-conservation-board-funds-environmental-improvement-and-acquisition-projects4WCBWed, 16 Nov 2022 15:05:20 GMTWCB funds environmental improvement and acquisition projects at Nov. 2022 meeting.<p>At its Nov. 15, 2022 quarterly meeting, the Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) approved approximately $24.46 million in grants to help restore and protect fish and wildlife habitat throughout California. Some of the 16 approved projects will benefit fish and wildlife — including some endangered species — while others will provide public access to important natural resources. Several projects will also demonstrate the importance of protecting working landscapes that integrate economic, social and environmental stewardship practices beneficial to the environment, landowners and the local community.</p> <p>Funding for these projects comes from a combination of sources including the Habitat Conservation Fund and bond measures approved by voters to help preserve and protect California’s natural resources. The General Fund is also being used, which will help to achieve the 30x30 Initiative (the goal to conserve 30 percent of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030) and nature-based solutions.</p> <p>Funded projects include:</p> <ul> <li>A $650,000 grant to California Rangeland Trust (CRT), the acceptance of a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Habitat Recovery Land Acquisition grant, and the approval to subgrant these federal funds to CRT to acquire a conservation easement over approximately 4,503 acres for the protection and preservation of threatened and endangered species habitat, rangelands and grasslands, and habitat linkages located near Hollister in San Benito County.</li> <li>A $1.1 million grant to the Tehama County Resource Conservation District to conduct the planning, design, impacts analysis and permit implementation actions necessary for the reconnection and restoration of salmonid rearing habitat in a historic side channel immediately downstream of Battle Creek’s confluence with the Sacramento River in Tehama County.</li> <li>A $2.38 million grant to the Feather River Land Trust for a cooperative project with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to acquire a conservation easement over approximately 4,101 acres of working landscape to protect and preserve open waterways, emergent wetlands, wet meadows, perennial native grasslands, dry meadows and the open-space characteristics which support numerous sensitive species along with providing future potential wildlife-oriented, public-use opportunities located in Plumas County.</li> <li>A $2.4 million grant to California Waterfowl Association for a cooperative project with California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) to enhance 798 acres of wetlands and 17 acres of native upland habitat for the benefit of migratory birds located at the Imperial Wildlife Area in Imperial County.</li> <li>A $3.17 million grant to Caltrans for a cooperative project with CDFW, Eastern Sierra Land Trust and U.S. Bureau of Land Management to complete the designs and environmental compliance necessary to install a wildlife crossing corridor consisting of two enhanced undercrossing structures and exclusion fencing along U.S. Highway 395, 10 miles southeast of the town of Mammoth Lakes in Mono County.</li> <li>A $4.72 million grant to the Resource Conservation District of the Santa Monica Mountains for a project to develop the planning, designs and environmental review for a wildlife overpass across Interstate 5 in the Newhall Pass Region near Santa Clarita in Los Angeles County.</li> </ul> <p>For more information about the WCB please visit <a href="http://wcb.ca.gov" target="_blank">wcb.ca.gov</a>.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:john.donnelly@wildlife.ca.gov">John Donnelly</a>, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 445-8448<br /> <a href="mailto:amanda.l.mcdermott@wildlife.ca.gov">Amanda McDermott</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 738-9641</em></p> Wildlife Conservation Board Celebrates 75 Years of Protecting California’s Natural Resourceshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/wildlife-conservation-board-celebrates-75-years-of-protecting-californias-natural-resourcesWCBWed, 14 Sep 2022 15:56:58 GMTWildlife Conservation Board Celebrates 75 Years of Protecting California’s Natural Resources<p><strong>Butte Creek House Meadow. Photo by Thad Walker, Butte County Resource Conservation District.</strong></p> <p>This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB). Created by legislation in 1947, WCB protects, restores and enhances California’s spectacular natural resources in partnership with conservation groups, government agencies and the people of California. This collaborative effort works to protect biodiversity, increase climate resiliency and provide access for all.</p> <p>Existing within the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), WCB is a separate and independent board which allocates funds for the preservation, protection and restoration of wildlife habitat as well as related outdoor public use facilities. The three main functions – land acquisition, habitat restoration and development of wildlife-oriented public access facilities – are carried out through WCB’s 16 programs with funding from state bonds, special funds and general funds.</p> <p>The WCB’s initial programs funded land acquisition, habitat enhancement and restoration, and public access, with early projects including hatcheries, development of CDFW wildlife areas, and access for hunting and fishing. Into the 1960s, the Ecological Reserve system was established and projects were expanded to benefit threatened and endangered species.</p> <p>Much has changed in California over the past 75 years, and priorities have shifted accordingly. Currently, WCB is focused on the protection of biodiversity, climate resilience, increased work in disadvantaged communities and the state’s <a href="https://www.californianature.ca.gov/pages/30x30" target="_blank">30 x 30 initiative</a>, with the goal of protecting 30 percent of land and coastal waters by 2030. This work is emphasized by the increasing severity of drought, devastating fires and impacts of climate change.</p> <p>“We are excited to celebrate the work of WCB happening through continued collaboration and partnerships with those implementing projects on the ground,” said WCB Executive Director John Donnelly. “We are also dedicated to expanding those partnerships and will focus work where the need is greatest. The importance of our collective efforts continues to be critical and timely. There is still much work to do, and we look forward to the expanded opportunities to protect fish and wildlife and provide public access to the magnificent natural resources of California.”</p> <p>WCB has worked with many partners since its inception to preserve lands and public access throughout the state, with a record including:</p> <ul> <li>Nearly 1.8 million acres of land protected</li> <li>970,000 acres of land restored</li> <li>1,900 acquisition projects</li> <li>2,050 restoration projects</li> <li>$3.5 billion invested</li> </ul> <p>“So much amazing work has been accomplished in 75 years by the WCB,” said CDFW Director Charlton H. Bonham. “This moment really brings great hope for all the work over the next 75 years between the board, conservation organizations, landowners, Tribes, cities and counties for the benefit of this great state.”</p> <p>More information about the WCB can be found on the <a href="https://wcb.ca.gov/" target="_blank">WCB website</a>, including a list of <a href="https://wcb.ca.gov/About/FAQ" target="_blank">frequently asked questions</a>.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:john.donnelly@wildlife.ca.gov">John Donnelly</a>, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 445-8448<br /> <a href="mailto:amanda.l.mcdermott@wildlife.ca.gov">Amanda McDermott</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 738-9641</em></p> Wildlife Conservation Board Funds Environmental Improvement and Acquisition Projectshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/wildlife-conservation-board-funds-environmental-improvement-and-acquisition-projects3WCBTue, 30 Aug 2022 10:21:10 GMTWildlife Conservation Board Funds Environmental Improvement and Acquisition Projects at August Meeting<p>At its Aug. 25, 2022 quarterly meeting, the Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) approved approximately $15.82 million in grants to help restore and protect fish and wildlife habitat throughout California. Some of the 17 approved projects will benefit fish and wildlife — including some endangered species — while others will provide public access to important natural resources. Several projects will also demonstrate the importance of protecting working landscapes that integrate economic, social and environmental stewardship practices beneficial to the environment, landowners and the local community.</p> <p>Funding for these projects comes from a combination of sources, including the Habitat Conservation Fund and bond measures approved by voters to help preserve and protect California’s natural resources.</p> <p>Funded projects include:</p> <ul> <li>A $360,000 grant to the Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County to acquire a conservation easement over approximately 321 acres of land for the protection of significant oak woodland and wildlife resources, including rangeland productivity and open space to support working landscapes while providing additional social, economic and environmental benefits, located near San Luis Obispo in San Luis Obispo County.</li> <li>An $881,058 grant to the Ventura County Resource Conservation District for a cooperative project with Ojai Valley Land Conservancy, Meiners Oaks Water District, City of Ojai, Senior Canyon Water District, Ventura River Water District, Merito Foundation, Watershed Progressive and Hicks Law to develop plans for over 200 multiple benefit projects to support enhanced flow throughout the Ventura River watershed in Ventura County.</li> <li>A $863,500 grant to the County of Los Angeles for a project to construct a new floating fishing pier at Puddingstone Reservoir, install Americans with Disabilities Act pathways and restrooms, and install multilingual interpretive signage, located on county-owned land in the city of San Dimas in Los Angeles County.</li> <li>A $1.29 million grant to Bear Yuba Land Trust to acquire a conservation easement over approximately 806 acres of land for the protection of water resources, wetlands, blue oak woodlands, and lacustrine and grassland habitat, located near the Penn Valley community in Nevada County.</li> <li>A $1.59 million grant to Great Basin Institute for a cooperative project with National Park Service and Sequoia Park Conservancy to enhance forest health and protect giant sequoia groves located in Sequoia Kings Canyon National Parks approximately 50 miles east of Fresno in Tulare County.</li> </ul> <p>For more information about the WCB, please visit <a href="http://wcb.ca.gov" target="_blank">wcb.ca.gov</a>.</p> <p>###<br /> <em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:John.Donnelly@wildlife.ca.gov">John Donnelly</a>, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 445-8448<br /> <a href="mailto:Amanda.L.Mcdermott@wildlife.ca.gov">Amanda McDermott</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 738-9641</em></p>