As Cargill phased out salt production, DFG and FWS began initial stewardship of the salt ponds. The objectives of initial stewardship were to protect the existing habitat values of the acquired ponds and to maintain the property so that it could be restored later on. See Initial Stewardship for more information. The long-term restoration plan for the salt ponds was developed while initial stewardship took place. The long-term restoration plan outlines the mix of habitats to be restored or enhanced in the South Bay, and the associated flood management measures and public access improvements, the first phase of implementation of the restoration project, and the adaptive management plan.
