Is Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary in jeopardy?

VENTURA ― The Ventura County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved submitting a letter on July 25 to the federal government opposing intrusion on the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. U.S. Department of Commerce has been tasked with reviewing 11 national marine sanctuaries designated or expanded in the last 10 years. The analysis could have an effect on marine sanctuaries if potential offshore energy resources are found. Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary is one of the 11 marine sanctuaries subject to review. Oil and gas drilling are currently prohibited in marine sanctuaries. Is this local marine protected area (as well as the other 10 national marine sanctuaries) in danger of offshore oil drilling? A discussion with a definitive response came down to the wire when the county’s supervisors agreed to send the letter addressed to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. The letter states the board’s opposition to impeding on the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. The original deadline to submit comments was July 26. “The waters of the Marine Sanctuary are home to an incredible diversity of marine and bird life,” Bennett wrote in his recommendation to the board. “Many endangered whale species make vital use of the Sanctuary waters, including the world’s...