How does the Ecosystem Restoration Program affect residents, agriculture, industry and the environment of California?
The Ecosystem Restoration Program Element has been successfully acquiring and protecting important lands in the Delta and along its tributaries. To date, more than 130,000 acres of habitat targeted for species of import to the Delta have been enhanced, protected and restored, mostly through easements obtained by working with local land owners and communities. Protection of agricultural lands remains a high priority as well, with more than 54,000 acres protected for their significant habitat values. Efforts to date have led to a significant rebound of salmon species in the Central Valley and investments in protecting habitat have preserved lands and stream passage for migrating and/or spawning fish species. The Watershed Program Element has awarded more than $60 million in watershed improvement grants, funded 64 statewide watershed coordinators, developed assessment criteria for nearly 30,000 square-miles of watersheds statewide and continued an ongoing effort to provide watershed educa
