More education, research opportunities allowed by wildlife commission in coastal protected areas

Key Takeaways:

• California approves increased research access in Marine Protected Areas.
• Decade-long protections have led to significant ecosystem rebound.
• Environmental groups successfully petitioned for research and restoration initiatives.
• Pending decisions on expanding MPAs could further enhance marine conservation.
• Conflicts persist between conservation efforts and fishing industry interests.

A New Era for Marine Research

Marine science researchers and educators in Southern California are celebrating a recent decision by the California Fish and Game Commission to allow more access to some coastal Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). This move follows a decade of strict protections that have helped local ocean ecosystems rebound.

Rebounding Ecosystems

There are 124 MPAs designated statewide, with 50 located off Southern California’s coast. Established to restore heavily fished and impacted sections of the coastline, these areas prohibit the removal of marine life, including plants. In 2023, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife reported that many MPAs are now teeming with life, a testament to the effectiveness of the protections over the past ten years.

Opening Doors for Research

While the MPAs have been successful in conservation, restrictions also limited scientific study within their bounds. Recognizing the need for research, several environmental groups petitioned for exceptions. “We’re glad we got through the first rounds,” said Ray Hiemstra, associate director of policy and projects for the nonprofit Orange County Coastkeeper. His organization petitioned for access to MPAs off Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Dana Point. “We were looking at these areas for restoration projects. This now opens them up for projects like eelgrass and oyster restoration.”

In January, OC Coastkeeper, along with at least 20 local environmental groups, submitted petitions seeking greater access to these “natural ocean laboratories.”

Petitions and Approvals

The commission categorized the requests into two groups. Bin 1 included noncontroversial, straightforward petitions, such as those for research access, most of which received approval. Bin 2 encompassed more significant changes like expanding existing MPAs or altering protections to allow increased fishing. Applicants in this category have until January 10 to refine their petitions, with the commission set to review them again in March.

Ongoing Efforts and Challenges

One notable Bin 2 petition comes from the Laguna Bluebelt Coalition, which aims to extend the MPA boundaries through South Laguna to Dana Point, designating it as a no-take, no-fishing zone akin to the rest of Laguna Beach’s shoreline. This proposal faces opposition from local commercial sportfishing charters and lobster fishers, who argue that it would further limit their fishing grounds along the Orange County coastline.

Additional pending requests include expanding the Point Dume State Marine Preserve boundaries in Los Angeles County and modifying protections around Catalina Island, such as making Casino Point and Lovers Cove no-take zones.

Future Research and Restoration Projects

Heimstra and other environmentalists are enthusiastic about the opportunities the commission’s decision affords. Projects like eelgrass and oyster restoration, previously off-limits, can now proceed in areas such as Crystal Cove State Park, Laguna Beach between Table Rock Beach and Goff Island, Bolsa Chica, and Dana Point. “Now, we’ll have a fresh look there,” Heimstra said.

One recent initiative by OC Coastkeeper involved eelgrass restoration in Upper Newport Bay. Researchers explored whether eelgrass and oysters could coexist and provide natural protection against environmental impacts. The oyster beds served as barriers against erosion, while the eelgrass helped filter the water.

Clarifying Protections

The commission also made changes to Fish and Game codes to clarify existing protections within conservation areas. “It clarifies that there is no take from a tidepool, not even a rock,” Heimstra explained. “Some people thought that when the tide was high and you couldn’t see them, you could wade in and catch a lobster.”

Balancing Conservation and Industry

Marine biologist Nancy Caruso submitted a request to restore green abalone in protected areas off Orange County. While her research wasn’t immediately approved and requires further review from the Ocean Protection Council, she remains optimistic. “Cheers to Ray for putting all these through,” she said, expressing enthusiasm for the research that can now commence in the MPAs.

Looking Ahead

As California’s marine ecosystems continue their remarkable recovery, the expanded access for research and education signals a promising future for ocean conservation. However, challenges remain in balancing environmental goals with the interests of the fishing industry. The upcoming decisions in March will further shape the state’s approach to preserving its vital marine habitats.