Issues & Action

photo by Alison Sheehey

Audubon California has a long history of effective policy advocacy, and some of our most impressive conservation victories have come in this arena, including efforts to save Mono Lake and create new protections for the California Condor. Because we are linked not only to the National Audubon Society, but also to the 48 local chapters in California, we have a broad network to call upon when we want to support legislation or public policy that aligns with Audubon’s mission and values.

We encourage you to not only learn about the important conservation issues facing California today – and our work on them – but to also participate and make your opinions known to your local, state and federal leaders. Visit this page often, sign up for our Action Alerts and stay engaged.

Audubon California policy priorities

Audubon California’s policy advocacy efforts fall into four basic areas

1. Stabilize and increase populations of at-risk species of birds

Audubon California has a long history of policy successes involving the California Condor, the Western Snowy Plover, and the Tricolored Blackbird, and we will continue to advocate on behalf of these and other specific at-risk bird species. Our work in this area not only seeks to secure important protections for these species, but also the protection of their essential habitat and the development of conservation strategies.

2. Prevent persistent declines or range contractions in populations of common native birds

While identified at-risk species will always be high on Audubon California’s policy agenda, we will also continue to make our voice heard on issues related to various threats to common native birds and their habitats. For instance, we will continue to advocate for additional protections for California’s wetlands, and create new opportunities for working with agriculture and private landowners to protect birds and important habitat. Understanding that global warming presents an unprecedented threat to birds and habitats, we will actively support legislation and policies that lessen its impact, all the while ensuring that the solutions are sustainable and minimize impacts on wildlife.

3. Improve and protect the health of habitats that support birds

Conserving habitats for birds and other wildlife is an essential part of Audubon California’s mission, and we will continue to identify and initiate conservation projects, actions, policies, and funding on behalf of these critical landscapes. In this area, our work will be guided by our knowledge and work in the state’s Important Bird Areas, as well as the organization’s own sanctuaries and Centers, where we have made substantial investments in terms of conservation and scientific research.

4. Building a culture of conservation

Continued public support and public funding for Audubon California’s mission depends on communities of people who care about wildlife protection. For this reason, we will continue to pursue opportunities to promote educational and recreational programs at our Centers and Sanctuaries, as well as the many beneficial programs supported by California chapters. Moreover, a critical element of all of our policy advocacy will be to educate the public about the importance of conservation issues to their lives with a mind toward mobilizing an ever larger base of support for our mission.