The Santa Barbara Channel and California’s south central coast make up one of most ecologically rich and important regions in the world. EDC must remain vigilant to protect our coastline, to stop irresponsible offshore oil development, to further our vital Marine Protected Areas and to protect the magnificent marine mammals, from whales to sea otters, that call this region home.
Ever since 2007, when five endangered blue whales were killed as a result of cargo ship strikes, EDC has been working to protect great whales from this constant threat. If cargo ships slow down, these magnificent creatures will be safer and the air we breathe on shore will be cleaner.
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EDC is playing a leadership role working with diverse partners in support of our magnificent underwater parks known as Marine Protected Areas. MPAs are good for fish and marine life while also supporting diverse recreational opportunities for swimming, diving, boating, and more.
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National Marine Sanctuaries are like underwater parks that receive special protection for species, habitat, and cultural resources. Right now, there is a push to add another sanctuary to the list of 14, located just off the central coast of California.
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As the pressure for more open ocean aquaculture continues to grow across the United States, it is critical that projects are sited to minimize impacts to marine wildlife, public health and safety, and to avoid conflicts with other ocean uses.
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EDC has long advocated for the protection of marine resources in the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary that sits off the coast of Santa Barbara and includes the waters around five of the Channel Islands. Since 2019, EDC has actively participated in the process to revise the Sanctuary’s Management Plan and ensure protection of the ecosystem and natural resources.
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