Organizations to install signage near designated MPAs

CHULA VISTA — A proposal to install metal signs at various coastal access locations statewide to inform the public of nearby marine protected areas, or MPAs, was approved during the California Coastal Commission’s Oct. 10 meeting in Chula Vista. Ocean Protection Council (OPC) and California Marine Sanctuaries Foundation specifically proposed the installation of 150 MPA signs in 13 coastal counties. Almost half of the signs – 73 out of 150 – would be installed at coastal access points in Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties. A majority of the signs – 85 out of 150 – would be interpretive; the other 65 would be regulatory. Interpretive signs provide information of MPA resources, while regulatory signage offer background on specific location details and the rules and regulations governing marine protected areas. The purpose of the signs, according to Coastal Commission staff, would be to educate the public of MPA regulations. Signs would be placed at boat launch sites, parking areas, visitor centers and similar areas. “OPC and DFW believe that installing signs with information about MPAs at major coastal access or departure points near MPAs … will increase public MPA awareness and compliance with MPA regulations,” Coastal Commission staff stated in a report to commissioners. California’s...