What are Ecosystem Services?


The Environmental Farming Act Science Advisory Panel and CDFA recognize the importance of environmental stewardship practices in agriculture. The science panel has defined ecosystem services as "the multiple benefits we gain from farming and ranching including crop and livestock production. In addition to valuable open space and wildlife habitat, the management decisions and conservation practices of farmers and ranchers also enhance environmental quality, provide recreational opportunities and offer social benefits."

Ecosystem Services Database

Below are examples of important benefits provided by ecosystem services.

Are you are farmer/rancher that has on-farm/ranch ecosystem services?
Let us know: EcoSysServices@cdfa.ca.gov.