NOAA is proposing to designate a national marine sanctuary in ocean waters of central California. The area’s nationally significant natural, historical, archaeological, and cultural resources will benefit from comprehensive community- and ecosystem-based management.
In proposing this designation, NOAA recognizes and celebrates Indigenous Peoples’ modern day and historical cultural connections to the place, and will actively involve Tribes and Indigenous communities in collaborative management, inclusive of their values, knowledge, and traditions. The sanctuary designation would also conserve the area’s rich biodiversity and create new opportunities for research and economic development, including recreation and tourism.
We are accepting public comments through October 25, 2023. In addition, NOAA will host virtual and in-person meetings to gather additional input.
Public Comment Meeting 1 (in-person):
Date and time: Monday, September 25, 2023; 5 PM PDT
Location: County of San Luis Obispo Board of Supervisors Hearing Room
Address: 1055 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408
Public Comment Meeting 2 (in-person):
Date and time: Wednesday, September 27, 2023; 5 PM PDT
Location: Dick DeWees Community Center
Address: 1120 West Ocean Avenue, Lompoc, CA 93436
Public Comment Meeting 3 (online):
Date and time: Thursday, October 12, 2023; 1 PM PDT
Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7569323252287031132
We encourage your input on this action and look forward to hearing from you during this designation process. For more information, please visit the website here.
