California National Marine Sanctuary Plan Moves Forward; Public Input Sought
Deepwater bubblegum coral, a host for California king crab, observed during 2020 E/V Nautilus exploration of the Santa Lucia Bank. Corals and sponges that make up the area’s seafloor habitats provide food and shelter for recreationally and commercially important fish species. (OET/NOAA) At a Glance The Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary would be off San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties.It would cover 7,000 square miles. NOAA is seeking public comment until Jan. 10. A proposal is moving forward to...