Creation Covenant Alliance

The Biden-Harris Administration Establishes a New National Marine Sanctuary off the California Coast

The Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary will protect marine biodiversity while honoring Indigenous heritage.
Northward View from Point Conception Lighthouse in the new Chumash Marine Sanctuary

The Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary Honors Tribal Input and Advances Ocean Conservation

Northward View from Point Conception Lighthouse in the new Chumash Marine Sanctuary

Northward view from Point Conception Lighthouse. | Photo by Robert Schwemmer/NOAA

The Biden–Harris administration has finalized a management plan for the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary, the first Indigenous-nominated marine sanctuary in the U.S. The official rule designating the sanctuary was published recently, cementing its status as the third-largest marine sanctuary in the country.

Covering 4,500 square miles, the sanctuary honors California tribes and protects marine biodiversity, including whale species, dolphins, sea otters, and seabirds, from oil and mining threats. The area remains open for fishing, recreation, tourism, and research. Conservation groups and the Northern Chumash Tribal Council, advocating for this protection for decades, praised the administration’s decision.

Violet Sage Walker, chairwoman of the Northern Chumash Tribal Council, expressed gratitude for the sanctuary’s establishment, stating, “We are almost there, and the significance of our collective effort will make history.” The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will collaborate with Chumash Tribes to co-steward the sanctuary, integrating traditional ecological knowledge with federal efforts in daily management, outreach, and education.

The designation’s submission begins a 45-day review by Congress and the California governor. Finalization is expected by year-end, marking a significant conservation milestone for President Biden. Local advocates, including the Sierra Club’s Santa Lucia Chapter, commend this overdue protection of the Pacific Ocean.

Proposed Chumash Heritage Nature Marine Sanctuary Montana de Oro. | Photo by Robert Schwemmer/NOAA

Proposed Chumash Heritage Nature Marine Sanctuary, from Montaña de Oro State Park. | Photo by Robert Schwemmer/NOAA

The proposed sanctuary lies between two existing sanctuaries, Monterey Bay and Channel Islands. A large section was excluded to support California’s developing offshore wind industry, with potential for phased expansion by 2032. This is the first federal marine sanctuary since 1994, highlighting both ecological and historical preservation, including numerous shipwrecks.

Fred Collins, late chief of the Northern Chumash Tribal Council, initiated the sanctuary’s consideration in 2015. His daughter, Violet Sage Walker, continues his legacy, actively advocating for the designation. “This is a huge moment for the Chumash People,” she remarked in a NOAA press release.

Establishing the sanctuary supports President Biden’s America the Beautiful initiative, aiming to protect 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. It also aligns with Secretarial Order 3403, promising federal collaboration with tribes on land and water stewardship.

Prominent California leaders, including Vice President Kamala Harris and Senators Alex Padilla and Salud Carbajal, have championed this designation. Senator Padilla stated, “This sanctuary designation marks a hard-fought victory for the Chumash people, our conservation priorities, and clean energy development.”

Original Story at www.sierraclub.org

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024