State officials endorse north coast ocean plan
North coast stakeholder’s landmark unified proposal earns policy expert’s support
Contacts: Jennifer Savage, Ocean Conservancy North Coast Program Coordinator, (707) 477-8283 William Lemos, Consultant to Natural Resources Defense Council, (707) 671-3523
10/26/2010
After nearly a year of study and negotiations, the divers, fishermen, seaweed harvesters, tribal and business leaders, and conservationists tasked with designing marine protected areas for the north coast came together to develop a unified plan that balances economic and environmental concerns. The group agreed on the need to protect tribal harvest and the safety and future viability of the region’s fishing fleet.
During their two day hearing, the Blue Ribbon Task Force heard from the stakeholders that designed the plan, as well as science advisors and members of the public before passing a motion supporting the unified plan. Final authority rests with the Fish and Game Commission, who will make a final decision in 2011.
“This unified plan has garnered support from every corner of the north coast, and it really considers the needs of everyone that uses the ocean for work or play,” said Jennifer Savage of Ocean Conservancy. “The Blue Ribbon Task Force’s recommendation is a big step forward, and we hope the Fish and Game Commission will heed their guidance, and the input from north coast residents, next year when they make a final decision."
The stakeholder plan was developed with public input gathered during 300 hours of meetings, in addition to 20 public workshops. It would protect about 13 percent of state waters, including treasured areas like Reading Rock, South Cape Mendocino and Ten-Mile Beach. The plan would maintain fishing access at all North Coast harbors and allow ongoing traditional, non-commercial tribal harvest. A map and description are available at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/mpaproposals_nc.asp.
“We're pleased the Blue Ribbon Task Force was able to recognize the community input and forward the unified proposal to the Commission,” said William Lemos, consultant to Natural Resources Defense Council. "We're also pleased that they took concrete measures to maintain traditional tribal uses. That's a huge step forward.”
The Blue Ribbon Task Force recommended several steps to ensure ongoing access for noncommercial traditional tribal harvest and explore opportunities for co-management. In addition to the stakeholder plan, the Task Force voted (with two members abstaining) to forward an “enhanced compliance alternative” plan that aims to meet more science guidelines.
The Marine Life Protection Act calls for a network of science-based marine protected areas along the length of the California coastline. Its goal is to protect the state’s marine life and habitats, marine ecosystems, and marine natural heritage, as well as to improve recreational, educational and study opportunities. It is being implemented regionally, with local stakeholders designing protections for their stretch of the coast. For more information visit www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa.
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