Since 1978, the California State Coastal Conservancy's Enhancement Program funded 23 projects and plans affecting 2,328 wetland acres for almost $4 million. Twelve of the projects created, restored, or enhanced wetlands. These projects were evaluated with reference to their functional and perceived success. Ten of the projects were conflict‐resolution or land‐management plans. These projects were evaluated based on their specific goals. The results of this analysis concluded that the Enhancement Program projects were relatively successful. The success of the wetland creation projects was found to be a result of sound engineering practices. Unsuccessful projects generally were overly complex or lacked appropriate engineering. The success of the plans was found to be a result of the staffs innovative solutions, perseverance, and the unique powers of the Conservancy. Unsuccessful plans were typically overambitious and required intensive management by Conservancy staff.