WETLANDS (CALIFORNIA)

Wetlands are transitional lands between terrestrial and aquatic systems where the water table is usually at or near the surface or the land is often covered by shallow water during some parts of the year. Wetlands can be categorized according to specific habitat and type of vegetation. In general, wetlands are divided into: (1) Saltwater and Brackish Water Marshes: Usually located in coastal areas; (2) Freshwater Wetlands: Located primarily in the inland areas of California; and (3) Freshwater Forested and Scrub Wetlands: Commonly referred to as riparian habitat and exist along streams and adjacent to lakes.