Overview
This lecture provides an overview of California Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), their purposes, types, regulations, and management by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW).
Purpose and Importance of MPAs
- MPAs are designated marine or estuarine areas that protect marine life, habitats, and ecosystems.
- The Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) of 1999 established a statewide network of MPAs to preserve marine heritage using science and public input.
- MPAs help conserve biodiversity, provide sanctuaries, and support recreational, educational, and scientific uses.
- They also serve as scientific reference points to aid resource management.
Types of Marine Protected Areas
- There are three main types: State Marine Reserves (SMRs), State Marine Parks (SMPs), and State Marine Conservation Areas (SMCAs).
- SMRs prohibit all extractive activities except permitted scientific collection.
- SMPs prohibit commercial extraction but may allow some recreational activities.
- SMCAs restrict specific commercial and recreational extractions.
Rules and Access in MPAs
- Non-extractive activities (swimming, diving, boating) are generally allowed in all MPAs unless otherwise specified.
- Each MPA type has different rules about what activities are allowed.
- MPAs are open for managed enjoyment and study with minimal human disturbance.
- Most boundaries use clear landmarks, but users must check maps for exact locations.
Regulations for Transit and Anchoring
- It is generally legal to transit through or anchor in MPAs with catch onboard, unless specifically restricted.
- Fishing gear cannot be deployed while transiting or anchored in some MPAs.
- Emergency allowances exist for anchoring and transit in hazardous conditions.
Adaptive Management and Review
- MPAs are reviewed every 10 years (Decadal Management Review) to assess effectiveness and make changes if needed.
- Closures and allowed activities may be updated as part of adaptive management.
Relationship with Other Regulations
- MPAs supplement, but do not replace, existing fisheries regulations.
- Changes to fishing rules due to MPAs go through established fisheries management procedures.
Key Terms & Definitions
- MPA (Marine Protected Area) — A designated marine or estuarine area to protect or conserve marine life and habitats.
- MLPA (Marine Life Protection Act) — California law establishing guidelines for creating and managing MPAs.
- SMR (State Marine Reserve) — Area where all extractive activities are banned except allowed scientific collecting.
- SMP (State Marine Park) — Area where commercial extraction is banned; some recreational uses may be allowed.
- SMCA (State Marine Conservation Area) — Area limiting specific commercial and/or recreational extractions.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the MPA interactive web map to find specific MPA locations and regulations.
- Read the MPA Network Interpretive Brochure for further details.
- Check for any emergency closures before visiting an MPA.