Floodplain lands and adjacent waters combine to form a complex, dynamic, physical, and biological system found nowhere else.  When portions of the floodplains are preserved in their natural state, or restored to it, they provide many benefits to both human and natural systems.

Some are static conditions – such as providing aesthetic pleasure – and some are active processes, such as reducing the number and severity of floods, helping handle storm water runoff and minimizing non-point water pollution.  

National Wetlands Inventory Map

The City of West Sacramento has many natural resources such as:

• Annual Grassland
• Riparian Woodland
• Oak Woodlands
• Freshwater Marsh
• Vernal Pools
• Seasonal Wetlands

A prime example of a natural floodplain functions in West Sacramento is the Southport Levee Improvement Project's Phase 3, floodplain restoration. 212 acres of habitat will be restored, which has a net increase of ~120 acres. Restoration of the area is still underway and will enhance habitat to a broad range of species as well as other recreation opportunities for the surrounding community.

The floodplain restoration project's design increases river-floodplain connectivity and restores ecologically functional floodplain habitat consistent with the flood-risk reduction goals of the project. Net wetland habitat will be developed on the water side of the setback levee and will include native plants that will improve water quality.

View the General Plan 2035 Natural & Cultural Resources Element