The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has released the draft California State Wildlife Action Plan 2015 Update (SWAP 2015) and is seeking public input.

Public input will help shape the final SWAP 2015, which will be completed by October 2015.

The draft SWAP 2015 is available online at www.wildlife.ca.gov/SWAP . 

Written comments on SWAP 2015 can be submitted on the Web site, by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by mail to SWAP 2015 Update, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, 1416 Ninth Street, 12th Floor, Sacramento.

The comment period is open from May 18 through July 2, 2015.

SWAP 2015 is a comprehensive, statewide plan for conserving California’s fish and wildlife and their vital natural habitats for future generations.

It is part of a nationwide effort by all 50 states and five U.S. territories to develop conservation action plans and participate in the federally authorized State and Tribal Wildlife Grants (SWG) Program.

Congress created the SWG program in 2000, recognizing the need to fund programs for the conservation of wildlife diversity. California’s first SWAP was completed by California Department of Fish and Game (now CDFW) and approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) in 2005.

CDFW has received approximately $37 million in federal support for the state’s wildlife conservation activities through the SWG program from 2005 through 2014.

The SWG program requires that SWAPs be updated at least every 10 years. CDFW has now prepared the draft SWAP 2015, which is the first comprehensive update of SWAP 2005.

SWAPs are required to include provisions to ensure public participation in the development, revision and implementation of projects and programs.

Public meetings to provide information about SWAP 2015 will be held in Sacramento, Oakland, San Diego and Los Angeles. See www.wildlife.ca.gov/SWAP for more details.