California hosts an extraordinary diversity of native ecosystems, each shaped by distinct environmental conditions, species assemblages, and natural disturbance regimes such as fire, drought, or flooding. This ecological heterogeneity means that no single approach to land management or restoration is universally effective. Instead, successful stewardship depends on strategies that are tailored to the unique dynamics, challenges, and conservation goals of each ecosystem type.
Grassland Restoration
California grasslands are vital ecosystems that support biodiversity, provide wildlife habitat and forage for livestock, and play a key role in carbon sequestration. However, the state’s grasslands are one of the most heavily impacted and degraded ecosystems, necessitating restoration.
Coastal Sage Scrub Restoration
Coastal sage scrub is one of the most imperiled ecosystems in California. This plant community is composed of a diverse array of drought-tolerant shrub species. Restoration efforts focus on reestablishing native shrub cover, controlling invasive plants, and improving habitat for sensitive wildlife.
Chaparral Restoration
California’s chaparral occurs in coastal and inland foothills and mountains, often at higher elevations and north-facing slopes near the coast, and on the western Sierra Nevada slopes. Restoration supports native shrub communities and addresses impacts of altered fire regimes, development, and invasion.
Desert Restoration
California is home to several distinct desert regions, including the Mojave, Colorado, and Great Basin deserts. These arid landscapes host a rich diversity of specially adapted species. Desert restoration addresses habitat fragmentation, invasive species, and human impacts to protect these fragile ecosystems.
Sagebrush Steppe Restoration
Sagebrush steppe in California is primarily found in the northeast, including the Modoc Plateau, Lassen County, and the eastern slopes of the Sierra Nevada. Invasion by cheatgrass and altered fire regimes have disrupted ecosystem function, making restoration critical for conserving these shrublands.
Riparian Restoration
Riparian ecosystems occur along rivers and streams, including both year-round and seasonal waterways. They support high biodiversity, provide wildlife corridors, and help filter water, reduce erosion, and recharge groundwater. Restoring riparian areas promotes healthy watersheds across California.
Oak Woodland Restoration
California is home to a number of oak species which have important ecological and cultural value. Oak woodland restoration supports biodiversity, improves watershed health, and helps preserve these iconic ecosystems in the face of habitat loss, climate change, and invasive species.
Native Hedgerows
Restoring native hedgerows in agricultural landscapes supports biodiversity, improves pollination and pest control, reduces weed pressure, and enhances soil and water conservation. These living borders provide critical habitat for wildlife while contributing to more resilient and sustainable farming systems.