We successfully opened the door for new scientific opportunities in Orange County’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)! Last month, the California Fish & Game Commission approved our petition to clarify the ability to conduct credible research, monitoring, restoration, and education projects within Orange County’s MPAs. As the climate crisis and sea level rise pose imminent threats, the need for swift and informed action is more critical than ever.
Orange County’s MPAs safeguard all rocky intertidal and reef habitats, providing a sanctuary for marine life. However, unclear regulations inadvertently hindered the areas available for scientific study, limiting researchers’ ability to gather essential data. We advocated for a balanced approach that allows for necessary research and monitoring activities while maintaining the ecological integrity of the MPAs.
This regulation impacts all Orange County MPAs except Upper Newport Bay, which already allows these activities. Approximately 12 of the county’s 42-mile coastline falls under MPA protections, encompassing beaches and waters within Bolsa Chica Basin, Bolsa Bay, Crystal Cove, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, and Upper Newport Bay.
In addition to approving our petition for new scientific opportunities, the Fish & Game Commission approved our request to update certain statewide MPA communications materials. Our suggestions were based on feedback from the Orange County Marine Protected Area Council and written to improve public understanding and participation in MPA protections. The changes include tweaking maps, graphics, definitions, and other textual elements.
Our team worked tirelessly over the past year to petition for these changes through the MPA Decadal Management Review process. With approval in hand, the regulation changes will be implemented in the coming months. We’re excited to see what kinds of research and restoration ideas come forward to help protect these special habitats and make them more resilient to climate change.
Want to learn more about this coastal win? Read about it in the Orange County Register.
