Biden Creates New Marine Sanctuary Along California Coast

Photo: Reuters/Michael Fiala

WASHINGTON, DC (REUTERS) – On October 11, the Biden administration announced the creation of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary along California’s central coast. This move marks a significant victory for the Chumash tribe, which has advocated for the designation for over a decade. The sanctuary aligns with President Biden’s broader environmental goal of protecting 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030.

The newly designated sanctuary excludes areas where infrastructure, such as transmission cables, could be installed to support upcoming offshore wind projects. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration stated it would consider expanding the sanctuary once these installations are complete.

The Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary spans 4,543 square miles of coastal waters, covering 116 miles between San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. It is the fifth marine sanctuary in California and the third largest in the U.S.

“Generations of U.S. land and water policies have placed Native Americans at a great disadvantage throughout our history,” said Kenneth Kahn, chairman of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. “Today’s announcement is a sign that things are changing. The Chumash tribal government never relinquished its aboriginal right to manage our traditional homelands. We are grateful that NOAA recognizes this inherent sovereignty and welcomed us as a co-steward of the sanctuary that bears our name.”