San Diego Coastkeeper firmly believes in the importance of MPAs in preserving recreation opportunities, enhancing the underwater environment, and strengthening local fisheries.
San Diego Coastkeeper participated heavily in the Marine Life Protection Act process and dedicated several staff members to MPA advocacy. Coastkeeper representatives stood up for conservation interests on the Regional Stakeholder Group, which ultimately generated San Diego’s MPA maps for consideration by the Fish and Game Commission. Following the completion of the design phase, Coastkeeper continued to advocate for the strongest and smartest possible protections for San Diego’s coast. Our MPA-related education and outreach efforts garnered widespread community support, including an endorsement from numerous elected officials and business leaders. In the midst of this groundswell of support for a healthier coastline, over 700 MPA supporters attended a Fish and Game Commission hearing on the issue held in San Diego in 2010.
Finally adopted in 2012, MPAs are a welcome part of San Diego’s marine conservation and recreation legacy that benefit both local wildlife and the San Diego community. Coastkeeper played a key role in creating these important “underwater parks.” Today, our team enjoys MPAs for all their benefits: unique recreation opportunities, cultural preservation, healthier fisheries, protected underwater habitats, and more.