CDFW News

CDFW and Partners Collaborate to Reduce Wolf-Livestock Conflict and Benefit Ranchers

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 14:55:32 GMT

Utilizing $2 million provided by the California Legislature for its Wolf-Livestock Compensation Program, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has awarded funds to four organizations to support efforts to reduce wolf-livestock conflict. With gray wolves naturally returning to California over the last 15 years, ranchers in several regions are encountering new challenges and these funds help strengthen the on-the-ground efforts to protect livestock while supporting the recovery of the species.

** The California Bountiful Foundation – supported by the California Farm Bureau – will collaborate closely with CDFW to reimburse livestock producers who suffer confirmed or probable wolf attacks on livestock. The foundation will also provide additional support, such as education, outreach, and equipment, to livestock producers in counties affected by wolves.

** The Sierra Valley Resource Conservation District will support livestock producers utilizing approved hazing techniques on gray wolves. Efforts will include providing outreach, training, and equipment that will help producers detect wolf presence. It will also study the use of electronic cattle ear tags that can potentially alert livestock producers to wolf conflict by sensing and reporting abnormal cattle movement or behaviors.

** The Honey Lake Valley Resource Conservation District will deliver educational and technical assistance programs to help eligible livestock producers implement hazing and deterrence strategies. It may also provide producers with approved hazing equipment.

** Working Circle will provide outreach to livestock producers geared toward reducing cattle vulnerability to wolf depredation through herd management and stockmanship. Working Circle will conduct workshops and work directly with interested producers to assess and reduce depredation risks on specific properties.

“CDFW deeply values its partners and looks forward to continued collaboration with these organizations to help reduce wolf-livestock conflicts, support California’s livestock producers and manage the recovery of wolves in California,” said CDFW Director Meghan Hertel. “We have heard clearly from ranchers how hard the return of wolves has been on their livelihoods – not just financially, but in the day-to-day mental and physical toll of managing this animal. These programs are meant to offer support and more tools to the people most affected by the return of gray wolves to the state.”

As the gray wolf population continues to recover in California, CDFW will continue to work with partners to reduce the impacts of wolf presence on livestock. Reimbursement for livestock depredations and the use of non-lethal deterrent tools and hazing are important parts of this work.

Tools such as fladry, radio-activated guard devices and Foxlights have been used to deter wolves in California. Increased human presence, including range-riding, and the use of aerial drones and other less-than-lethal hazing have also helped deter wolves from livestock.

For more information about gray wolves and the Wolf-Livestock Compensation Program, please see CDFW's gray wolf web page.

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Media Contact:
Alicia de la Garza, CDFW Communications, (916) 754-7237

California Fish and Game Commission, CDFW Honor Deputy District Attorneys Michael McCann and Ken Jorgensen as 2025 Wildlife Prosecutors of the Year

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 10:14:07 GMT

The California Fish and Game Commission (Commission) and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) are proud to recognize two outstanding prosecutorial partners – San Diego County Deputy District Attorney Michael McCann and San Luis Obispo County Deputy District Attorney Ken Jorgensen – as 2025 Wildlife Prosecutors of the Year.

“Both honorees have demonstrated exceptional leadership, collaboration and dedication in safeguarding California’s natural resources,” said Commission President Eric Sklar. “It is a privilege to jointly recognize these deserving prosecutors with our primary partner agency, CDFW.”

California’s expansive border region, major seaports, diverse ecosystems, and native wildlife and fisheries face constant pressure from poachers, wildlife traffickers, environmental crimes and chronic violators. This year’s award recipients have played pivotal roles in strengthening wildlife and environmental enforcement through innovative legal strategy, field partnership and unwavering commitment.

“Deputy District Attorneys Michael McCann and Ken Jorgensen exemplify what true partnership in wildlife protection looks like. Their commitment, legal expertise and willingness to work hand in hand with our officers have directly strengthened California’s ability to confront wildlife trafficking, environmental crimes and chronic violations,” said Nathaniel Arnold, CDFW Deputy Director and Chief of the Law Enforcement Division. “Their work protects not only our natural resources but the integrity of the systems that safeguard them. CDFW is proud to honor their exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to conservation.”

Deputy District Attorney Michael McCann – San Diego County

McCann is recognized for his critical role in a nearly two-year investigation into an underground trafficking ring dealing in exotic, venomous and restricted species. The case originated when CDFW investigators identified a social media seller offering restricted wildlife, including Morelet’s crocodiles that are native to parts of Mexico, Belize and Guatemala. McCann immediately committed resources, including two district attorney investigators, to support the operation.

The investigation revealed a criminal network trafficking caimans, Gila monsters, snapping turtles, palm pit vipers and Komodo Island pit vipers across the San Ysidro border crossing – posing significant threats to California’s biodiversity. McCann reviewed numerous warrants, provided around-the-clock legal guidance and drew on his narcotics prosecution expertise to help navigate evidence of firearm and drug trafficking uncovered during the operation. Michael McCann

When officers executing a residential warrant discovered evidence of additional crimes, McCann swiftly facilitated an expedited secondary warrant, ensuring the investigation moved forward without delay. He coordinated with CDFW’s Office of General Counsel, the Orange County District Attorney’s Office and defense counsel to maintain a clear and effective prosecution plan.

The case resulted in multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, including illegal wildlife sales, illegal firearms possession and possession for sale of controlled substances. McCann successfully negotiated a global plea agreement spanning San Diego and Orange counties, halting the spread of unlawfully possessed wildlife and disrupting a sophisticated trafficking network. Evidence from the case continues to support additional investigations. CDFW leadership describes McCann as an invaluable ally whose tenacity and professionalism have significantly advanced the state’s ability to combat wildlife trafficking.

“On behalf of myself and the San Diego District Attorney’s Office, it is a privilege to work with the hard-working men and women of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.  Your professionalism, dedication and commitment to justice is exemplary throughout our state,” McCann said. “My office and I are honored to receive this award, which was truly a team effort led by CDFW's Lt. Garrett Smittle and his colleagues who worked countless hours to prevent the trafficking of venomous protected reptiles, the sale of drugs, the transfer of assault weapons and child endangerment.  We sincerely thank you for everything you do in protecting California’s wildlife, natural resources and habitat.”

Deputy District Attorney Ken Jorgensen – San Luis Obispo County

Jorgensen is honored for his exceptional skill, strategic leadership and transformative impact on wildlife and environmental enforcement in San Luis Obispo County. His partnership with CDFW has produced measurable progress in addressing commercial fishing violations that had historically gone under-prosecuted.

One key case involved a commercial fisherman with a 15-year pattern of violations, resulting in a $12,500 fine and five years of probation – reinforcing that persistent noncompliance will be met with meaningful consequences.

In a legal climate where fish and wildlife violations are commonly granted judicial diversion (a process where violators resolve their case by completing court-ordered requirements rather than receiving a criminal conviction), Jorgensen has strengthened enforcement by strategically pursuing civil actions when appropriate. He resolved two high-impact, unlawful guiding cases this year, achieving settlements nearly equal to illicit profits, securing permanent injunctions and ensuring portions of penalties remained local to support conservation through the San Luis Obispo County Fish and Game Commission.

Jorgensen’s persistence is especially evident in a multi-year case involving the unlawful destruction of habitat for the endangered Pismo clarkia, an annual herb that grows in central California. Despite complex biological evidence, shifting personnel and evasive suspects, he led a coordinated, multiagency search warrant and crafted a creative legal strategy combining fish and wildlife statutes with Business and Professions Code authorities. The result was a landmark 2025 settlement totaling $165,350 and permanent injunctions preventing further habitat destruction and pollution.

“Congratulations to Ken on this prestigious award,” said San Luis Obispo County District Attorney Dan Dow. “I am very proud of the outstanding work he has done alongside our entire Environmental Enforcement team. Ken’s professionalism and pursuit of excellence are invaluable assets when it comes to safeguarding our natural resources and serving our great community.”

Beyond casework, Jorgensen has strengthened regional environmental enforcement by establishing quarterly interagency roundtable meetings, expanding information sharing and best practices across jurisdictions. His participation in field operations and marine patrol ride-alongs further demonstrates his commitment to understanding the challenges faced by wildlife officers.

The Commission and CDFW proudly recognize McCann and Jorgensen for their extraordinary service, innovative legal leadership and vital contributions to protecting California’s fish, wildlife and natural habitats.

CDFW Photo: Members of the California Fish and Game Commission stand with Wildlife Prosecutor of the Year Ken Jorgensen.

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Media Contacts:
Kory Collins, CDFW Law Enforcement Division, (310) 944-8182
Peter Tira, CDFW Communications, (916) 215-3858

‘A Massive Win’: Rehabilitated Black Bears Thriving After Fall Releases

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 13:57:03 GMT

Five orphaned black bear cubs that were rehabilitated and released into northern California in November 2025 successfully hibernated through the winter and returned to the landscape this spring healthy and active, according to recent data reviewed by California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) scientists.

These bears were part of an experimental effort led by the department’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Program, in coordination with CDFW’s Game Conservation Program and North Central Region, to test the viability of releasing rehabilitated juvenile black bears back in the wild in the fall versus the typical spring release. This practice – which can be helpful in mitigating human-wildlife conflict – has been successful in other states but had yet to be tested in California.

All five bears were ear-tagged, microchipped and fitted with GPS collars for scientific study and individual identification. Based on collar data, all five bears successfully established dens, hibernated during the winter, and reemerged this spring back on the landscape.

“This is a massive win. These bears spent their first winter hibernating naturally in the wild as opposed to staying overwinter in a facility, which can be costly and difficult to do. It means less time in rehabilitation and less opportunity to get comfortable around humans,” said Dr. Heather Perry, CDFW’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Program Coordinator. “We were able to work together to release these healthy young animals back to the wild where they belong. It highlights the important and unique role of wildlife rehabilitators – and wildlife rehabilitation by its very definition – in the conservation of California’s native wildlife.”

The releases were made possible by CDFW’s wildlife rehabilitation partners with support from the CDFW Wildlife Health Lab and veterinary staff who provided health assessments prior to release. CDFW decided to test the fall bear releases after noting the success of fall releases in other western states, specifically Nevada and Washington.

“Bears are incredibly resilient. They have an innate behavior to find shelter when snow starts to accumulate on the ground,” said Alexia Ronning, CDFW Environmental Scientist and Tahoe bear specialist. “They teach us all the time that we need to trust their ability to survive on the landscape.”

The five bears include:

Two female siblings reported to CDFW as orphaned near Nevada City, Nevada County in May 2025. Both cubs were captured and taken to the Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue for rehabilitation then returned together to suitable habitat in Nevada County.

One male cub reported to CDFW as abandoned in South Lake Tahoe, El Dorado County in July 2025. The cub was captured and taken to Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue for rehabilitation then returned to suitable habitat in El Dorado County.

Three male siblings reported to CDFW as abandoned in Arnold, Calaveras County in July 2025. The cubs were captured and taken to the San Diego Humane Society’s Ramona Wildlife Center for rehabilitation. One sibling arrived sick and was humanely euthanized. The remaining two cubs were transferred to Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue then returned together to suitable habitat in Calaveras County.

CDFW provides year-round education, outreach and community support on living responsibly with black bears and recreating in bear country through its affiliations with the Tahoe Interagency Bear Team (TIBT) and BearWise. Preventing black bears from accessing trash, human food sources and other attractants is key to preventing human-bear conflicts.

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Media Contact:
Peter Tira, CDFW Communications, (916) 215-3858

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CDFW Image: A cluster of GPS points overlayed on satellite imagery over a three-month period in winter shows very little movement and indicates to CDFW biologists that the GPS-collared Calaveras County bear wearing the collar found a den and hibernated.

WCB Approves $80.4 Million for Wildlife Connectivity, Salmon Recovery, Biodiversity and Public Access Projects

Thu, 28 May 2026 15:22:01 GMT

Funding Will Protect Biodiversity Hotspots and Expand Access to Nature Across California

The Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) approved $80,450,797 in grants for 23 projects across 16 counties to protect biodiversity, restore wildlife habitat and expand public access to nature. The board met today at the California Natural Resources Agency headquarters in Sacramento.

Among these, seven projects advance the California Salmon Strategy for a Hotter, Drier Future (PDF), restoring floodplains, improving stream function and enhancing habitat for coho salmon, Chinook salmon and steelhead trout. Projects also include investments in wildlife corridors, wildfire resiliency, wildlife-oriented recreation and butterfly pollinators.

WCB’s grants advance Gov. Gavin Newsom’s goal of conserving 30 percent of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030, a globally adopted target known as 30x30. The initiative seeks to protect biodiversity, expand access to nature for all Californians and adapt to climate change.

Investing in the Governor’s Salmon Strategy

A $29.3 million grant to the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), in cooperation with the Sutter Extension Water District (SEWD) and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, will remove the Sunset Weir on the Feather River near Live Oak in Sutter County. The project will restore fish passage to 28.5 miles of upstream habitat for Central Valley Chinook salmon, steelhead and green sturgeon. It will also restore more natural flow patterns, reconnect sediment movement and improve overall river function. Additional work includes fish screens, diversion upgrades and bank stabilization.

“We’ve talked about removing Sunset Weir for decades. This funding and our partnership with SEWD will finally make it possible,” said James Newcomb, deputy director of natural infrastructure and ecosystem resilience with DWR. “This project restores more natural river function while continuing to support local water management needs.”

A $4 million grant to California Trout Inc. (CalTrout) will restore approximately 500 acres of historic tidal marsh on the Cannibal Island Unit of the Eel River Wildlife Area in Humboldt County. The project will reconnect the site to tidal flow by removing fill and outdated infrastructure, improving habitat for coho salmon, Chinook salmon, steelhead and other native species while increasing resilience to sea level rise.

“The Eel River estuary is one of California’s most important coastal ecosystems for native fish and local communities, and Cannibal Island sits right at its heart,” said Christine Davis, North Coast regional manager of CalTrout. “With WCB’s investment, we can restore tidal flow, improve flood resilience and rebuild the habitat juvenile salmon and steelhead need to recover.”

A $2.96 million grant to the Watershed Research and Training Center (WRTC) will restore 27 acres of floodplain and riparian habitat on Salt Creek in Trinity County, a tributary to the Klamath River. The project will reconnect the creek to its floodplain, improve habitat complexity for salmonids and reduce erosion risks to nearby infrastructure while improving groundwater and summer baseflow conditions. The Yurok Tribe Construction Corporation will conduct all heavy equipment grading and construction tasks.

“Restoring cool summer baseflow, fish passage, groundwater connectivity and floodplain function at the mouth of Salt Creek are foundational elements for improving salmon and steelhead habitat throughout the watershed,” said Joshua Smith, watershed stewardship program director for WRTC. “This site has been heavily damaged by mining, but it represents one of the largest groundwater recharge opportunities for salmonids in the basin, and WCB support is crucial.”

Enhancing Biodiversity, Resilience and Public Access at Park Ranch

An $8 million grant to Western Rivers Conservancy (WRC) and Alpine County will acquire 1,688 acres near Markleeville to protect wet meadows, springs, riparian habitat, mixed conifer forest and sage-steppe in the Eastern Sierra. The property provides habitat for Lahontan cutthroat trout, Sierra Nevada red fox, western bumblebee and monarch butterfly, while improving connectivity with nearby public lands. Alpine County plans to manage the property for conservation and year-round public access, including hiking, fishing, hunting and winter recreation. Continued grazing will help reduce fuel loads and support wildfire resilience.

“We are deeply grateful to the Wildlife Conservation Board for its commitment to the East Fork Carson River, Alpine County and all who depend on and care about this outstanding river,” said Nelson Mathews, president of WRC. “Conserving Park Ranch will help protect cold water for native fish, safeguard an important migration corridor for mule deer and other wildlife, build wildfire resiliency and preserve the scenic character that makes the East Fork Carson such a special place.”

“This funding will create a permanent, community-managed wildlife preserve that reduces wildfire risk through compatible grazing and expands public access for future generations,” said Samuel R. Booth, Alpine County executive officer.

Protecting Connected Landscapes in Southern California

A $5.9 million grant to the Endangered Habitats Conservancy (EHC) will acquire 1,226 acres near Jamul in San Diego County to protect habitat supporting species including Hermes copper butterfly, Quino checkerspot butterfly and California red-legged frog. The property strengthens a regional wildlife corridor linking conserved lands across eastern San Diego County and expands long-term habitat protection within the Skyline conservation complex.

“The Skyline North Phase II project will conserve a large, biologically diverse and beautiful landscape of oak woodland, riparian and chaparral communities,” said Michael Beck, executive director of EHC. “This acquisition protects a critical regional wildlife linkage supporting threatened species including the Hermes copper butterfly, southwestern pond turtle and California red-legged frog.”

Expanding Pollinator Habitat and Landscape Connectivity

A $1.87 million grant to the Sierra Resource Conservation District (SRCD) will restore 100 acres of pollinator and riparian habitat and establish more than 26,000 linear feet of hedgerows across Fresno County. The project supports monarch butterfly conservation while improving habitat connectivity across agricultural and urban landscapes.

“Immense habitat loss and ecosystem disruption throughout the San Joaquin Valley threatens our region’s resiliency and quality of life. Cultural knowledge of these ecosystems and how to steward them is at risk of being lost,” said Leierin Carney, restoration projects manager for the Sierra Resource Conservation District. “By expanding habitat across farms, school sites and county parks, and supporting trainings rooted in Traditional Ecological Knowledge, this project will help build the next generation of land stewards.”

About the Wildlife Conservation Board

Established in 1947, the Wildlife Conservation Board protects, restores and enhances California’s spectacular natural resources for wildlife and the public’s use and enjoyment. WCB works in partnership with Tribes, conservation groups, government agencies and the people of California to safeguard biodiversity and expand access to nature.

For more information about WCB, visit wcb.ca.gov. To explore the newly funded projects, visit WCB’s StoryMaps pages.

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Media Contact:
Mark Topping, WCB Communications, (916) 539-4673

California Red-Legged Frog Recovery Reaches 10-Year Milestone in Yosemite

Thu, 07 May 2026 15:06:12 GMT

10,000 frogs released through multiagency conservation effort

The California red-legged frog, a federally threatened species absent from Yosemite National Park for decades, has made a significant comeback after 10 years of coordinated conservation work.

Partners marked the milestone today with the symbolic release of the program’s 10,000th frog in Yosemite Valley.

The recovery effort is led by the National Park Service in collaboration with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Yosemite Conservancy and San Francisco Zoo & Gardens.

“This milestone reflects years of focused work to restore a species that plays an important role in the park’s ecosystem,” said Rob Grasso, aquatic ecologist at Yosemite National Park. “After invasive bullfrogs eliminated red-legged frogs from the area decades ago, we removed those threats and created conditions for recovery. Today, multiple generations of frogs are established in Yosemite Valley.”

Invasive American bullfrogs, introduced to the park, drove the species’ decline. Elevated raccoon populations, fueled by open refuse sites that remained in use until the 1970s, also contributed to the loss. Park staff spent decades removing bullfrogs, while habitat improvements tied to the Merced River Plan restored wetlands, streambanks and river systems critical to the frog’s survival.

“Our partners have been essential to the recovery of the California red-legged frog,” said Kim Turner, acting field supervisor for the Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office. “We appreciate the progress made over the past decade and remain committed to this collaborative effort.”

During the May 7 event, speakers will deliver remarks near Yosemite Falls before releasing several zoo-reared frogs, including the program’s symbolic 10,000th frog, nicknamed “Twain.”

“The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is proud to have assisted the recovery of California’s official state amphibian in Yosemite,” said Laura Patterson, amphibian and reptile conservation coordinator for the Department. “Grants administered by the Department, using funds approved by the voters of California, facilitated the habitat restoration necessary for the success of this recovery effort.”

A key component of the effort is a dedicated rearing facility established in San Francisco in 2016 through a partnership between the National Park Service and the San Francisco Zoological Society. At the facility, staff raise frogs from wild-collected eggs to one- and two-year-old juveniles in a controlled environment before releasing them into the park.

The program is supported by the Zoo-Park Partnership Program, facilitated by the Wildlife Restoration Foundation, and is considered a model for species recovery in California.

“When the program began in 2016, no California red-legged frogs remained in Yosemite Valley,” said Dr. Rochelle Stiles, director of field conservation at the San Francisco Zoo and Gardens. “Today, every frog in the valley traces back to this effort. Despite drought, severe winters and flooding, the population has proven resilient.”

This year, the zoo plans to release about 830 juvenile frogs into Yosemite while raising approximately 600 eggs for future release.

“Protecting vulnerable species helps preserve the park’s natural balance,” said Cassius Cash, president of Yosemite Conservancy. “This milestone shows what sustained collaboration can achieve.”

The effort also relied on private landowner Diane Buchholz of Garden Valley, Calif., who allowed researchers to collect frog eggs from her property.

The California red-legged frog gained national recognition in The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County by Mark Twain. The species, the largest native frog in the western United States, grows 2 to 5 inches long and is known for its reddish underside and soft, short calls. It inhabits ponds, streams and wet meadows.

About the National Park Service Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. ;Learn more at nps.gov.

About the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service works with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. For more information, visit www.fws.gov, or connect with us through any of these social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, YouTube and Flickr.

About the California Department of Fish and Wildlife The California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s mission is to protect California's diverse fish, wildlife and plant resources, and the habitats upon which they depend, for their ecological values and enjoyment by the public today and for generations to come. For more information visit wildlife.ca.gov or follow CDFW on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.

About San Francisco Zoo & Gardens Established in 1929, San Francisco Zoo & Gardens connects people to wildlife, inspires caring for nature and advances conservation action. An urban oasis, SF Zoo is home to nearly 1,500 exotic, endangered and rescued animals representing about 150 species. Located at the edge of the Pacific Ocean at Sloat Boulevard, the Zoo is open 365 days a year from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (4 p.m. in the winter). Visit www.sfzoo.org for more information.

About Yosemite Conservancy For more than 100 years, Yosemite Conservancy has supported the conservation of Yosemite’s natural and cultural resources and helped people develop a deeper relationship to the park. Thanks to generous donors, in recent years, the Conservancy has provided more than $180 million in grants to Yosemite for more than 950 projects. In 2026, we are providing $19 million in total support and funding around 60 new grants to the National Park Service for projects in the park. The Conservancy’s guided adventures and art classes, donor events, volunteer opportunities, wilderness services and bookstores help people from across the country and world connect with Yosemite. Learn more at yosemite.org.

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Media Contacts:
Yosemite National Park
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Krysten Kellum, CDFW Communications, (916) 825-7120
Nancy Chan, San Francisco Zoo & Gardens, (415) 840-6065
Peter Bartelme, Yosemite Conservancy