A harbor seal gracefully swims through the vibrant kelp forest surrounding Anacapa Island in Channel Islands National Park, California in 2019. The area, located just 14 miles (23km) off the southern California coast, is a mesmerizing underwater sanctuary teeming with life. Enormous sea bass, resembling grizzly bears in size, glide alongside schools of sardines through the golden strands of kelp that dominate this colorful world. Playful harbor seals frolic amidst undulating pink, green, and orange plants, while spiny crustaceans and vibrant sea stars cling to the volcanic rock formations that lead down to the sandy ocean floor.
Often referred to as California’s Galapagos, the cliffsides and caves of the Channel Islands are home to a diverse array of species that flourish within the protected federal parklands and state-protected waters that encircle them. The area boasts 13 designated marine protected areas (MPAs), safeguarding approximately 21% of the waters to provide a safe haven for the resident species. While these areas are open to the public for activities like swimming, surfing, and diving, fishing and other potentially harmful activities are prohibited to prevent habitat loss.
However, concerns have arisen regarding the protection of this marine sanctuary. The California Fish and Game Commission is currently conducting a review of the MPAs, contemplating proposals to either expand or reduce the existing protections around the islands. With 20 petitions filed by various stakeholders, including tribes, fisheries, and recreational users, decisions are expected in the near future.
Despite the ongoing evaluations, the Channel Islands continue to attract scientists, conservationists, and nature enthusiasts who appreciate the abundance of marine life and the pristine ecosystems fostered within this unique environment. The islands offer a rare opportunity to experience a wild and untouched landscape, with limited infrastructure and historical buildings adding to the allure of this remote destination.
Visitors are drawn by the opportunity to explore the underwater world, where playful sea lions, majestic kelp forests, and massive sea bass captivate divers from all corners of the globe. The Channel Islands provide a rich biodiversity and serve as a valuable educational and recreational resource, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts in preserving this marine haven for future generations.
A senior manager at Benioff Ocean Science Laboratory discussed a study conducted in 2023 that revealed how Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) drive ecotourism dives. The benefits of MPAs extend beyond attracting enthusiastic tourists, as explained by McCauley. By restricting fishing activities in specific areas, not only have species been able to recover, but it has also positively impacted the fishing industry.
McCauley likened the regulations to a savings account with exponential returns while speaking over the noise of a dive boat engine heading towards the islands. Allowing biodiversity to flourish without exploitation results in both an increase in numbers and size of creatures, leading to higher egg production and a thriving ecosystem that benefits fisheries, recreation, and overall ecosystem recovery.
The area teems with life even on a cold, grey day in May, as dolphins play in the surf and a humpback whale feeds on its lunch. The MPAs have proven to support nearby fisheries, with lobster production alone increasing by 225% outside of the protected boundaries. Biomass and fish species have also shown significant growth within the protected zones in just five years after the MPA designation.
Despite the success of MPAs, expanding protections may face challenges. While commercial fishers support sustainability efforts, they may resist further restrictions on marine areas. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s marine region manager, Craig Shuman, highlighted the controversial nature of marine protected areas and how stakeholders have submitted petitions with various suggestions for consideration by the commission.
Conservation efforts face political obstacles, with the Trump administration rolling back regulations on federal waters, potentially impacting protected areas. The threats posed by the climate crisis, such as increased pollution and the consequences of a warming world, further emphasize the importance of ocean protection.
Sandy Aylesworth, director of the Pacific Initiative at the Natural Resources Defense Council, expressed hope for reinforcing and expanding MPAs. Proposals include establishing new MPAs and expanding existing ones, although there are also suggestions that could weaken the network. Despite challenges, conservationists remain dedicated to safeguarding the ocean for the benefit of both marine life and humanity.
The country awaits initial recommendations from the department of fish and wildlife, which are not expected until November. There is uncertainty about which direction things may take. In the meantime, research will continue, and fishing will still be allowed in the spillover zones teeming with various species. Divers will explore the depths, encountering rare and colorful creatures, while birds perch on craggy rocks watching over them.
For McCauley, the progress made so far is significant, but he believes there is more work to be done. He views the 20-year-old Channel Islands national park as a young park compared to Yellowstone, which is 152 years old. He envisions the potential for the park to flourish over generations, benefiting Californians for years to come. McCauley challenges everyone to maximize the park’s values for future generations, striving for a brighter future.
