CalOceans News

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Science Magazine: MLPA balances nature and politics

March 25th, 2010

California's ocean is more than just an iconic attraction--it's also an economic powerhouse, driving millions of dollars in revenue each year for tourism, recreation, fishing and other businesses.  And all of those industries stand to gain when the state's science-based marine protected area network is complete. 

This Science Magazine article highlights new scientific tools and research that enable local stakeholders and State decisionmakers to design a network of ocean sanctuaries that will boost both fisheries health and profits. 

Bioeconomic computer models allow California to implement the Marine Life Protection Act in a way that will maximize ecological benefits and minimize short-term economic impacts.

According to UC Santa Barbara's Chris Costello, protecting the places where fish and shellfish feed and breed will increase the sustainability and productivity of fisheries. Bioeconomic models suggest that the kelp rockfish fishery would double in value under the plan currently proposed for southern California. 

Science Magazine calls the Marine Life Protection Act, which combines extensive public input with the best available science, a model for other states and countries looking to protect their ocean resources.