California creates first tribal-led marine protected areas

California has designated its first tribal-led marine protected areas, often described as “underwater parks,” creating two State Marine Conservation Areas near Carpinteria and around Central California’s Point Sal. The California Fish and Game Commission voted Thursday to establish the roughly nine-square-mile sites, co-led by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians and the Northern Chumash Tribal Council. The areas allow hook-and-line fishing from shore but prohibit commercial fishing and sportfishing from boats. Northern Chumash officials said the Point Sal zone includes kelp forests and Lion Rock, a habitat for sea lions, seals and migratory birds, plus ancient village sites. Tribal and academic supporters praised the protection as a safeguard against threats such as possible oil and gas leases, while some commercial and recreational operators warned they could lose access to key waters.