The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has published Guidelines for Recovery Planning pursuant to Fish and Game Code section 2079.1(f). This document guides the development of effective and actionable recovery plans for species listed under the California Endangered Species Act. The recovery guidelines underwent tribal and public review in 2025, and all comments received were considered during the development of the final document. CDFW is in the process of prioritizing recovery planning for species that are most likely to benefit from a recovery plan, particularly those threatened by land use changes, climate change, or aquatic habitat changes (Fish & G. Code, § 2079.1(b)).  

Additional information on recovery planning can be found on our Frequently Asked Questions page. Questions can be submitted to CESArecovery@wildlife.ca.gov with "Guidelines to Recovery Planning" in the subject line, or they can be mailed to:

California Department of Fish and Wildlife
Wildlife Branch, Attn: Recovery Guidelines
P.O. Box 944209
Sacramento, CA 94244-2090