Habitat destruction and degradation are among our most serious environmental crises, causing species extinctions and threatening many remaining wildlife populations around the world. In California, population growth and associated coastal development have caused the loss of over 90 percent of our wetlands. Although the passage of environmental laws in the 1970s, including the California Coastal Act, has helped to slow this decline, many remaining wetlands continue to be threatened by development and are degraded by poor water quality, invasive species, and other threats. In addition to making sure that no more loss occurs, an important new challenge is to restore wetlands and other critical habitat wherever feasible.

	Planting arroyo willows at Upper Newport Bay

Learn about the California Coastal Commission's community restoration programs:

• Community Based Restoration and Education Program at Upper Newport Bay

• Digging In: A Guide to Community Based Habitat Restoration

• High School Activity Guide for Teachers, Our Wetlands, Our World