Long Beach
3rd District

LONG BEACH, CA – Councilmember Kristina Duggan, Chair of the Los Cerritos Wetlands Authority, proudly announces the approval of a pivotal land exchange agreement by the California State Coastal Conservancy on February 15 to restore over 150 acres of coastal wetlands in Long Beach. This landmark agreement, involving an exchange of a five acre parcel owned by the Los Cerritos Wetlands Authority with a 150 acre parcel from Los Cerritos Wetlands LLC, marks a significant step forward in the restoration and protection of the Los Cerritos Wetlands.

“Over the past year, we rolled up our sleeves to come to terms on a deal that transitions 154 acres of private oil fields to beautiful coastal wetlands that can be enjoyed by everyone,” said Councilmember Kristina Duggan. “This historic occasion not only decommissions oil wells on the site over 15 years earlier than anticipated, but it also serves as a key milestone in our City's transition away from oil drilling and I am proud to lead this effort.”

“Today’s action is a major step towards the LCWA’s ability to restore the wetlands and bring back a coastal and community benefit to the area [Long Beach],” said Mark Stanley, Executive Officer of the Los Cerritos Wetlands Authority.

The project aims to create a sustainable and vibrant ecosystem, incorporating educational and recreational opportunities for the community. With the addition of trails, a visitor center, and other amenities, the restored wetlands will become a destination for nature enthusiasts, students, and families alike. The project also aligns with Long Beach’s broader environmental goals, marking a departure from the city's historical reliance on oil production and moving towards a future focused on conservation and public access to natural spaces.

“This approval will help facilitate a public/private partnership necessary for the restoration of over 150 acres of Upper Los Cerritos Wetlands in Long Beach,” said John McKeown, Project CEO of Los Cerritos Wetlands LLC. “We look forward to moving forward with this project and are excited to have partnered with the Los Cerritos Wetlands Authority to be long-term stewards of the property.”

“We’re encouraged with the Coastal Conservancy approval of the land exchange. It will help reconnect and restore the area’s natural wetlands and allow public access to a site which has been closed to the public for decades,” said Peter Zak, Project Principal of Los Cerritos Wetlands LLC.

The Land Exchange Agreement still requires additional approvals from the California State Department of General Services and the Los Cerritos Wetlands Authority Board of Directors.