Sign: Anacapa Marine Protected Areas

Sign: Anacapa Marine Protected Areas

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The California Channel Islands shelter some of the richest marine ecosystems in the world and have been set aside as both National Park and National Marine Sanctuary. A Network of 13 Marine Protected Areas covering 318 square (240 square nautical miles) have been established by the state of California and the federal government to provide refuge for sea life.

Marine Protected Area Regulations
Diving, surfing, swimming and boating are allowed within Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) but fishing is restricted, Anchoring and transit through MPAs with catch onboard is allowed, so long as fishing gear is stowed and not in use. Ancacapa Island MPAs include:

Anacapa Island Marine Reserve: Prohibits taking of all living, geologic or cultural resources.

Anacapa Island Marine Conservation Area: Prohibits taking of all living, geological, or cultural resources, except for commercial and recreational fishing for lobster and recreational fishing for pelagic finfish.

Anacapa Island Special Closure: Prohibited access out to 120 foot depths from January 1 to October 31.

Marine Protected Areas enhance opportunities for recreation, education and science. Around Anacapa Island they protect critical and diverse habitats such as rocky reefs and kelp forests and species such as the California Sheephead fish and leopard sharks.