Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a $44 million investment across 15 projects in 11 counties, focusing on tribal stewardship, salmon recovery, and desert protection. This funding aims to safeguard California's biodiversity and enhance public access to nature, aligning with the state's ambitious goal of conserving 30% of its lands and coastal waters by 2030, known as the 30x30 initiative.
These investments, made in partnership with the Legislature, underscore a core commitment to strengthening tribal partnerships, recognizing Indigenous communities as the original stewards of California's natural resources. Governor Newsom emphasized the state's dedication, saying, "California doesn’t back away from protecting what makes this state so extraordinary. These investments are about standing with tribes and communities, restoring the ecosystems we all depend on, and protecting the natural heritage of generations to come. When we act with purpose and invest in the health of our lands and wildlife, we deliver real, lasting results."
Tribal Affairs Secretary Christina Snider-Ashtari highlighted the importance of these efforts, stating, "Whether it is restoring Native practices to the lands, improving salmon runs and safeguarding eel populations, or expanding protections for desert wildlife, these awards represent Californians' shared commitment to stewarding the abundant biodiversity of the place we all call home." California Secretary for Natural Resources Wade Crowfoot added that these investments protect vital natural places and are a significant step toward the 30x30 goal, especially in partnership with tribal communities.
The grants, administered through the Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB), include $32 million from voter-approved 2024 Climate Bond dollars. Notable projects include a grant to the Tribal EcoRestoration Alliance for the purchase of the 80-acre Politsuwi property in Lake County, which will serve as an Indigenous-led ecological restoration and job training center. An $11.5 million grant to The Wildlands Conservancy will expand the Beaver Valley Headwaters Preserve in Siskiyou County, protecting salmon and steelhead runs. Additionally, a $7.5 million grant to the Mojave Desert Land Trust will conserve 1,093 acres near Yucca Grove in San Bernardino County, protecting critical habitat for the Mojave desert tortoise and other species.
The Newsom administration continues to prioritize biodiversity protection and tribal relations, with previous efforts including significant progress in salmon population restoration, leading to the reopening of commercial and recreational salmon fisheries. The state has also returned over 100,000 acres of land to California Native American tribes through various programs, reinforcing tribal sovereignty and cultural preservation.