Similar to previous studies, this study found a positive relationship between alcohol outlet density per population and referrals for child maltreatment investigations. Further, a negative relationship was found between admissions to alcohol and other drug treatment facilities and children's entry into foster care. Alternative explanations of these findings are offered. One issue that must be addressed in future research is whether limiting densities of alcohol outlets in one community or neighborhood increases problems in a neighboring community or neighborhoods where alcohol outlet density may not be regulated in the same manner. This issue, among others, must be confronted before effective environmental prevention programs can be designed to prevent displacement and achieve an overall reduction in the causes and consequences of substance use. The study assessed the spatial and longitudinal variations in variables related to substance abuse and referrals to child protective services for the 58 California counties over 4 years. Referrals to child protective services were measured using official data from the child Welfare System Case Management System of the California Department of Social Services. Three variables were used to measure aspects of the substance-use environment: alcohol and other drug resources, treatment needs, and availability of substances for consumption. Two control variables were included in the analysis: percentage of households receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and the percentage of unemployment in the county. 1 table, 2 figures, and 30 references