Celebrating the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary

We are thrilled to share that the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary designation is officially underway, making it one of 17 national marine sanctuaries in the United States and the very first to be tribally-nominated. As one of the five national marine sanctuaries in California, this new sanctuary will fill 4,543 square miles of coastal and ocean water between the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, representing a significant stretch of precious coastline.

Map of Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary (NOAA)

Why is this area important?

The Chumash People settled in this area more than ten thousand years ago and have stewarded its land and waters since. In doing so, they have set a beautiful example of what a harmonious, mutual relationship between man and the ocean can look like - a perspective and knowledge that is critically needed for state and national conservation efforts to be successful. The Chumash People partnered with community groups over the last 40 years to nominate and finalize the area as a national marine sanctuary. Included in these protections are cultural and historical sites such as submerged sacred burial sites; important marine ecosystems such as kelp forests, rocky reefs, seamounts; and estuaries along with a vast array of marine life including many keystone species.

How will this designation affect sea otters?

One keystone species that will greatly benefit from this designation is the endangered southern sea otter. A large percentage of sea otters call the Chumash area their home, making it a crucial safe zone for them due to their population’s vulnerability. By protecting kelp forests, this designation is also safeguarding an ecosystem that provides food, shelter, and hunting grounds for our furry friends. Additionally, this designation will prohibit offshore oil and natural gas extraction, seismic testing, and pollution off these waters - all threats to the sea otter population. 

This is a huge accomplishment that has been decades in the making! If you would like to learn more about this designation or Chumash history and culture, visit: https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/chumash-heritage/.