Scientists: The Science of Ocean Health is Clear

Sacramento, CA—The world’s oceans are in crisis, but science has provided a solution. A broad group of 27 marine biologists, oceanographers, and ecologists who study California’s waters today called on the Fish and Game Commission to act swiftly next week to create a series of marine reserves along the state’s coast, citing a global body of evidence about their effectiveness.

Speaking at an event held at the state Capitol this morning, naturalist and former Fitzgerald Marine Reserve manager Bob Breen unveiled a scientific consensus statement that states, “Networks of marine reserves will be necessary for long-term fishery and conservation benefits;” adding that, “Current scientific evidence justifies the immediate implementation of marine reserves as a central ocean management tool.”

“We know enough now to dramatically improve the management of ocean resources.,” said Breen. “Marine reserves are one of the best tools available to ensure the long-term health of ocean ecosystems. And with threats like climate change and fishing pressure growing greater by the year, it is critical that we act on this knowledge today.”

On August 5, the Fish and Game Commission will finalize plans for a marine protected area network that will extend from San Mateo to Mendocino Counties. Among other considerations, they will carefully weigh questions of ecological benefit.

With local fisheries in decline, a strong network of protected areas is urgently needed. The number of fishermen and boats, and the average commercial catch off California’s north central coast have dropped by two thirds over the past 14 years. A recent scientific study found that Pacific coast fish are half as large as they were 20 years ago.

“California has an opportunity to be a leader in, smart, science-based ocean protection,” said Kaitilin Gaffney, Director of Pacific Ecosystem Protection for Ocean Conservancy. “The ocean provides the air we breathe, the food we eat, and supports an economic engine critical to California’s future. This scientist consensus statement confirms the importance of the Marine Life Protection Act to the lasting protection of California’s most cherished natural resource--its coast.”

“The compromise plan before the Commission next week, known as the Integrated Preferred Alternative, meets science guidelines and will provide strong conservation benefits for the north central coast” said Karen Garrison, Co-Director of Natural Resources Defense Council’s Ocean Initiative. “Its core of marine reserves will set our ocean on the road to recovery.”

Scientific Consensus Statement attached.