HomeAbout

About WCB

green heron in water

The Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) is a state grant-making agency dedicated to safeguarding California's spectacular biological diversity and wild spaces for the benefit of present and future generations. WCB works in partnership with tribes, conservation organizations, and government agencies to acquire lands and design and implement habitat restoration and public access projects statewide. WCB was created by legislation in 1947. Today it administers nearly 20 programs that support projects in every corner of the state and in each one of California’s terrestrial ecosystems. WCB is a key partner in advancing California’s commitment to conserve 30 percent of its lands and coastal waters by 2030 (30x30).

WCB's seven-member Board consists of the President of the Fish and Game Commission, the Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Director of the Department of Finance, and four public members, two appointed by the legislature and two by the Governor. Non-voting members include three advisors each from the State Assembly and the State Senate.

Resources

WCB Mission

The Wildlife Conservation Board protects, restores and enhances California’s spectacular natural resources for wildlife and for the public’s use and enjoyment in partnership with conservation groups, government agencies and the people of California.

WCB Vision

WCB envisions a future in which California’s wildlife, biodiversity and wild places are effectively conserved for the benefit of present and future generations. WCB projects and programs maximize return on taxpayer investment in conservation and wildlife-oriented recreation, and empower and inspire current and future generations to protect California’s precious habitat and wildlife resources.

WCB Values

The following values guide WCB policies and actions:

Science-Based Decision-Making – In consultation with CDFW, we take actions that reflect the best available conservation science.

Ecosystem Health and Diversity – We believe that optimizing ecosystem health and diversity of the natural world is paramount to everything we do.

Access to Nature – We believe all Californians deserve access to nature and wildlife-oriented recreation experiences, and strive to reach young people and urban and disadvantaged communities.

Collaborative Conservation – We work collaboratively, leveraging our relationships and building capacity for stewardship within the conservation community.

Lasting Results – We strive for tangible, sustainable projects that withstand the test of time.

Innovation – We embrace innovation and entrepreneurial ideas with a willingness to take calculated risks in fulfillment of WCB’s conservation vision.

Public Accountability and Transparency – We ensure public understanding of WCB practices, priorities and investments.

WCB Guiding Principles

WCB operates according to the following guiding principles:

  • We evaluate investment opportunities and outcomes proactively, leveraging the knowledge and resources of our many valued partners;
  • We focus on statewide habitat conservation priorities and priority landscapes that fully represent California’s major ecoregions while allowing flexibility for conservation projects of local and regional significance;
  • We build community capacity for conservation by empowering landowners to protect and enhance valuable habitat on their lands and share their success with others;
  • We create opportunities for meaningful wildlife-oriented recreation experiences, which inspire Californians across the State to serve as conservation stewards;
  • We advance the art and science of habitat conservation and management by holding ourselves, our conservation partners, and recipients of State resources to high standards;
  • We anticipate changing conditions and circumstances and plan for the long-term needs of wildlife communities and future generations of Californians; and
  • We coordinate with conservation partners across all sectors and regions to achieve lasting results

Wildlife Conservation Board
Physical Address: 715 P Street, 17th Floor, Sacramento, CA 95814
Mailing Address: Wildlife Conservation Board c/o CDFW, P.O. Box 944209, Sacramento, CA 94244-2090
(916) 445-8448 | Contact WCB