California Water Code

§ 16200

WAT § 16200 Effective Jan 1, 2025Div. 7 · Ch. 28

Statute text

The Legislature finds and declares the following:

(a)California’s wetland resources provide an abundance of benefits for humans and the environment, including, but not limited to, flood risk reduction, filtration of water pollutants, surface and groundwater supplies, shoreline protection, erosion reduction, wildlife habitat, open space, and public recreational opportunities. Wetlands are an important habitat for migratory waterfowl of the Pacific Flyway, endangered species, and many other resident wildlife and fish populations.

(b)Scientists have determined that though small in area, wetlands are carbon sinks and wetland drainage leads to significant carbon and greenhouse gas emissions as stored carbon is oxidized. Management and restoration of wetlands provide many opportunities to restore carbon and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

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Legislative history

Added by Stats. 2024, Ch. 579, Sec. 1. (AB 2875) Effective January 1, 2025.