Sensitive Species

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) work together to conserve, protect, restore, and enhance species that are endangered, threatened, or candidates for listing—along with the habitats they depend on. These efforts are guided by the Federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the California Endangered Species Act (CESA).

Through these programs, USFWS and CDFW safeguard special-status species using tools such as:

• • • Monitoring and assessment
    • Conservation and recovery planning
    • Scientific research and permitting
    • Species and habitat management
    • Regulatory protections
    • Public outreach and education

OC Public Works’ Role in Conservation

When OC Public Works undertakes Capital Improvement or Maintenance projects that may affect natural resources—especially habitats supporting special-status plants and wildlife—we work closely with USFWS and CDFW to avoid, minimize, or mitigate impacts.

Understanding Species Status

Endangered Species

A native species in serious danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range due to factors such as habitat loss, overexploitation, predation, or disease.

(FE – Federally Endangered | SE – State Endangered)

Threatened Species

A species likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future without special protection and management efforts.

(FT – Federally Threatened | ST – State Threatened)

Species of Special Concern (SSC)

Native species experiencing significant population declines or range reductions, or those with naturally small populations at high risk.

(Designation: SSC – California Species of Special Concern)

California Rare Plant Rank 1B.1

Plants that are rare throughout their range, often endemic to California, and seriously threatened (over 80% of occurrences at risk).

(Tracked by: California Native Plant Society)

Photo Credits: Northern Harrier, Lynn Scarlett, Public Domain, Yellow Warbler, Courtney Celley/USFWS, Public Domain, White-faced Ibis, Tom Koerner/USFWS, Public Domain