In 2012, California became an international leader in ocean protection by completing the nation’s first statewide network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to ensure healthy, vibrant ocean life for generations to come.

MPAs create safe havens for marine wildlife to reproduce, grow and replenish adjacent areas, leading to stronger and more resilient marine ecosystems overall. These areas have been called “hope spots” because they are our best hope in restoring the beauty and bounty of ocean life threatened by overfishing, pollution, ocean acidification, and habitat destruction.

MPAs are not only valuable for protecting coastal ecosystems, but also provide recreational and economic benefits. Our community is better off with MPAs along our coast.

And MPAs are working! Check out the 10 year summary of how our local MPAs are proving to be a success.

But MPAs still need your support!  Opponents to MPAs, including some fishing groups, continue to lobby for the removal of MPAs. It is critical to demonstrate ongoing public support for our MPAs. Voice your support for MPAs by signing this petition.