California rejects proposals to expand marine protections off Santa Cruz County coast

California’s Fish and Game Commission denied petitions aimed at expanding marine protections off Santa Cruz County. At a Wednesday meeting, it rejected two proposals submitted by Environment California and Azul: expanding the small state marine reserve at Natural Bridges State Beach and creating a new state marine conservation area at Pleasure Point. If approved, the restrictions would have barred taking natural resources or fish in those areas. Santa Cruz County Supervisor Justin Cummings opposed the proposals, citing the need for appropriate science. Environment California said the goal was to protect kelp forests, citing research from Southern California where protections have helped by keeping kelp grazers like sea urchins in check. State Ocean Protection Council and the Department of Fish and Wildlife found documented benefits limited to Southern California, not central California.