01-29-2010, 12:10 PM
The Partnership for Sustainable Oceans, which represents the recreational fishing and boating community in California, continues to advocate for Proposal 2 for California's South Coast Marine Protected Area (MPA) network in accordance with the state's Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA). Proposal 2 provides a balanced approach based upon reliable science and a continuation of sound fisheries management policies which have resulted in the return of healthy fish populations and renewed ocean habitat off the California coastline. Proposal 2 also has the least impact on the economy. Four proposals, including Proposal 2, are currently being considered for adoption by the California Fish and Game Commission (FGC). The FGC's next meeting is scheduled for February 3-4, 2010, at the Resources Building Auditorium, 1416 Ninth Street, Sacramento. The FGC is not expected to take a final vote on MPA designations until late 2010.