The LCWA has responded to all questions received by the January 8 deadline for RFP 25-002. Responses can be viewed at this link.

Learn More

The LCWA has released Request for Proposals 25-002 for Services for the Development of a Standardized Graphic Design Template. The RFP can be viewed at this link.

Learn More

What Are the Wetlands?

The Los Cerritos Wetlands are a fragmented yet biologically rich coastal estuarine complex located along the San Gabriel River, at the boundary of Long Beach and Seal Beach. Once part of a vast network of salt and freshwater marshes, only a fraction of the original 2,400-acre system remains—approximately 500 acres in total, with varying levels of ecological integrity. Since this area represents one of the few remaining opportunities in southern California for restoration of estuarine habitat, the acquisition of these properties is a top priority regionally.

Land Use & Ownership

The LCWA currently owns or co-manages over 240 acres, including critical parcels such as Zedler Marsh and Steamshovel Slough. These sites are often impacted by legacy oil operations, invasive species, and tidal restrictions—but they also support rare habitats and federally listed species.

The wetlands are currently divided among multiple public and private stakeholders.

LCWA-Owned Lands

Zedler Marsh

Zedler Marsh (10 acres) was acquired in 2006-7 as a part of the greater 67 acre "Phase 1 Acquisition". It is home to the LCWA's native plant nursery and improvements for public stewardship and educational programming, in addition to valuable habitat.

The Central Area

The Central Area (formerly known as the Bryant Property) (41 acres). Though there are no tidally influenced areas on this parcel, there are areas that collect water and act as seasonal freshwater or brackish ponds. The salt marsh plant community is noticeably less diverse than what is found in Zelder Marsh, however, the Belding’s savannah sparrow still utilizes the degraded habitat.

The Southern Area

The Southern Area (former Hellman property) (100 acres) Acquired by the Wetlands Authority in 2010, and slated for phased enhancement as a part of the Southern Los Cerritos Wetlands Restoration Project.
a river with grass around it zoomed in

Steamshovel Slough/Mitigation Bank Site

Steamshovel Slough/Mitigation Bank Site (formerly owned by Synergy Oil & Gas) (68 acres) Access to Steamshovel Slough is primarily through guided kayak tours organized by the Los Cerritos Wetlands Land Trust. The slough supports a diverse range of wildlife, including Belding's Savannah sparrows and various migratory birds.

Other Publicly Held Lands

Gum Grove Park

Gum Grove Park (10 acres) is owned by the City of Seal Beach. It contains a Eucalyptus tree woodland and public parking.

The City of Long Beach Property

The City of Long Beach Property (33 acres) was obtained by the City of Long Beach in exchange for an 11 acre Public Service yard. It is also known as Marketplace Marsh.
bird in grass by body of water

The State Lands Parcel

The State Lands Parcel (former site of the Airport Club and Marina Palace) (3.5 acres) is owned by the California State Lands Commission. The LCWA has leased and managed this property since 2012. It will contain many of the public access features constructed as a part of the Southern Los Cerritos Wetlands Restoration Project.

The Los Alamitos Retarding Basin

The Los Alamitos Retarding Basin (40.67 acres) is owned by the Orange County Flood Control District which has no employees. Its duties are performed by Orange County Public Works. Stormwaters flow into the Retarding Basin and then are pumped into the San Gabriel River. When the pump station can’t keep with the maximum inflow, the excess stormflow is stored in the retarding basin until it can be discharged. Stormwater must be pumped because the maximum water elevation of the San Gabriel River is higher than areas, including Leisure World, that drain into the Retarding Basin.
There are also numerous privately held lands including areas owned by oil companies and utility providers. The LCWA’s strategy includes phased acquisition of key parcels to create a contiguous, publicly accessible conservation area. These acquisitions are often coupled with negotiated agreements for habitat restoration, oil infrastructure removal, and long-term ecological monitoring.