Overview: South Coast Region
The South Coast region extends from Ventura County to the Mexican Border. It is known for its beautiful beaches, moderate climate and rich biodiversity. The region is defined by the coastal plains of several major rivers and is bounded by the Transverse Mountain Ranges. The south coast of California has extremely high levels of species diversity, endemism, and the greatest number of threatened and endangered species in the state.
The beaches of south coast are world famous recreational destinations that attract millions of visitors annually and are a major contributor to both the economy and the quality of life in the region. A 2007 study found more than 129 million visitors to Southern California beaches that year.
Southern California is also home to about 24 million people. The two largest cities on the west coast, Los Angeles and San Diego are located in southern California. This proximity of dense urban development and sensitive natural areas creates a unique set of issues for the Conservancy to address in this region.
Major Issues in the South Coast
Coastal Access
There is enormous demand for public to access beaches and protected natural lands along the coast. There is ongoing need to open new points of access; to expand facilities; and to create trails that link inland communities to and along the coast.
Loss of habitat
Many of the coastal wetlands of Southern California have been destroyed. Most of the major river systems have been channelized and the landscape is fragmented by freeways and sprawling urban development. There is a significant need to protect habitat corridors and key habitat areas and to restore wetlands and riparian corridors.
Nonpoint source water pollution
Water is the rivers and along the coast of southern California is seriously impacted by urban runoff. Of special concern are the impacts to swimmers at the states popular beaches. There is significant need to implement projects that reduce the impacts from nonpoint source pollution throughout the region.
Priority Projects
Complete the Coastal Trail
–Build new sections of trail
–Install signs designating the trail
–Create new point of access to the coast and the coastal trail
Develop River Parkways
–Protect floodplains from development
–Restore riparian habitat
–Reduce nonpoint source pollution
–Build trails along rivers that link inland population to the coast
Recover Wetlands
–Acquire historic and remnant wetlands
–Restore ecological function
–Support the Southern California Wetlands Recovery Project
Restore Watersheds
–Restore natural sediment movement (remove dams, reduce excess sedimentation)
–Remove barriers to fish
–Improve habitat in riparian corridors, eradicate invasive species
–Reduce nonpoint source pollution
Major Projects
- Matilija Dam – Ventura River Watershed Restoration
- Santa Clara River
- Malibu Accessways
- Ballona Wetlands Restoration
- Santa Ana River Parkway
- Los Cerritos Wetlands
- San Clemente Rail Trail
- Accessible San Diego
