When California became a State in 1850, the State had an estimated five million acres of wetlands. These 4.5 million acres of wetlands were lost to urbanization, agricultural expansion, and flood protection measures.
Most people agree that wetlands are important.
They function as a conveyance for floodwaters, as barriers to erosion and in sediment control. They are vital for the continued existence of both waterfowl and many important fish species. Wetlands are treasured for their aesthetic properties and as recreational sites. They provide some of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in our country. Most of our country's remaining wetlands are on private lands.