This fall, the Alameda County Conservation Partnerships’ Wildlife-Friendly Pond Program was in full swing, restoring ponds across Alameda County and supporting restorations in Contra Costa County. In total, 10 ponds were restored or improved in both counties with partial funding from the NRCS Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). These restoration projects strengthen both local ecosystems and agricultural operations by extending pond hydroperiods to support breeding habitat for endangered species such as the California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander, while also providing reliable water sources for livestock. As many East Bay ponds, built decades ago, reach the end of their lifespan, these efforts help sustain vital water resources, promote drought resilience, and improve livestock distribution across rangelands — ensuring healthy working lands that continue to benefit both wildlife and producers. Since the origin of the Wildlife-Friendly Pond Program, Alameda County Conservation Partnership has restored over 75 ponds in Alameda County and plans to continue this important work for years to come. For more information visit https://acrcd.org/projects/wildlife-friendly-ponds/.