Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary Designated, First Tribally-Nominated Sanctuary Protecting Over 100 Miles of California Coastline

Oct 16, 2024, 08:06 PM

The Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary has been officially designated, marking it as the first tribally-nominated marine sanctuary and the first new sanctuary in California in over 25 years. This designation encompasses over 100 miles of California coastline and is a product of decades of advocacy from Indigenous communities in the Central Coast. The Biden administration, alongside officials from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), played a pivotal role in this achievement. The sanctuary aims to protect a biologically diverse marine ecosystem and supports habitat restoration efforts. Additionally, the Species Conservation Habitat Project Expansion at the Salton Sea was highlighted as a crucial investment for improving air quality and supporting local habitats, emphasizing the government's commitment to environmental health and public safety in surrounding communities.