In a landmark decision, the California Fish and Game Commission (FGC) voted to adopt a network of marine protected areas (MPAs) that will stretch from Santa Barbara to the Mexican-American border. The new MPAs build on protections adopted at the northern Channel Islands in 2003 and constitute the southern portion of a the statewide underwater park system envisioned by California’s Marine Life Protection Act of 1999. The approved plan was a compromise based on input from fishermen, divers, conservationists, and scientists. The south coast is an iconic landscape, including eight offshore islands, the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Orange County’s coves and headlands, the coastline of the Santa Monica Mountains State Recreation Area, Point Mugu State beach, and Malibu.
But the idyllic surface of our coastal waters masks growing problems. Over time, we have seen our marine environment steadily decline as a result of unwise coastal development, urban runoff, and overuse. These pressures have reduced the bounty of Southern California’s waters to a fraction of what our grandfathers knew.
Marine protected areas (MPAs) are a simple and urgently needed way to ensure future generations will inherit the same incredible coastal resources we have enjoyed. Like “underwater parks”, they preserve sensitive plants and animals while allowing people to experience a healthier marine environment. MPAs and reserves are scientifically monitored and evaluated by state and local marine scientists for their effectiveness.
With the December 15, 2010 decision by the Fish and Game Commissioners, MPSs will now constitute approximately 12% of the South Coast. Marine Reserves which prohibit all take of marine life will make up 8%. Fish and Game Department anticipates that the new MPAs will be implemented mid-2011.
Click Here to See MAP for Entire South Coast Region Below is a map showing Laguna’s marine protected areas.