Orange County Coastkeeper and the United Anglers of Southern California have partnered to ensure that when the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) process reaches Southern California; our unique and urban setting does not hinder the process.  The goal of the MLPA is to protect natural diversity and abundance of marine life; to sustain, conserve, and protect marine populations; to protect marine natural heritage; to improve recreational, educational, and study opportunities and ensure that state marine protected areas have clearly defined objectives.

Since the majority of our coastline has already been developed, the MLPA options from the other areas of the state may not be fitting to our circumstances.  With that in mind, Coastkeeper and United Anglers have a vision.  Though the ultimate vision is to create a marine park and nursery where passive recreation, like snorkeling, is allowed and create an artificial reef where more active recreation, like fishing, is permitted, we are in the process of vetting this idea. 

Our recently funded Ocean Park Initial Study includes writing a white paper on the opportunity to design a marine park along Orange County's Newport Coast and Newport Beach Areas of Special Biological Significance; the creation of a science and Technical Advisory Committee to vet the marine park concept; and  the compilation of baseline data necessary for the creation of such a park.  

After a year of hands-on field experience with Coastkeeper in their watershed, how would our Advanced Placement Environmental Science (APES) students pass on their knowledge?   One group placed shoes with ecological messages on a pier, while others taught 8^th grade students at their own school or passed out flyers to local businesses. 

These "community action projects" were part of the students' final mission of the WHALES program (Watershed Heroes: Actions Linking Education to Stewardship).   Dressed in ties and slacks, dresses and skirts, Costa Mesa APES students welcomed a panel of local professionals to judge their group presentations.  

Held at Costa Mesa High School on April 18^th and 19^th, the final presentations were an opportunity for student groups to show what they've learned through the WHALES program.  Representatives from the City of Costa Mesa, Mesa Consolidated Water District, the OC Sanitation District, Coastkeeper, and Cal State Fullerton formed a panel to judge the presentations and ask each group critical questions about their issue.  

While this may seem like an intimidating and daunting task for teenagers, Coastkeeper wants to prepare our students for the type of academic and professional interaction they can expect in college and future jobs.   We are proud of our students' efforts and hope this experience inspires them to be engaged citizens and stewards of their environment throughout their adult lives.  Learn more about WHALES.

Congratulations to all our Watershed Heroes!