A proposed marine sanctuary can protect more than 7,000 square miles of ocean off the Pacific Coast. Take action today in support of designating this new sanctuary.

Situated between Monterey Bay and Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuaries along California’s Central Coast, the proposed Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary would extend a corridor of protection for seabirds, fish, and marine mammals.

The area encompasses habitats like kelp forests, coastal dunes, and wetlands. Its designation would not only protect threatened and endangered sea life like blue whales and southern sea otters, but also hundreds of species of resident and migratory birds—from Brown Pelicans and Western Snowy Plovers to Sooty Shearwaters and several species of albatross.

Marine sanctuaries are a key component of seabird and shorebird conservation. Take action to support the sanctuary’s designation, and urge the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to uphold the largest proposed boundaries to maximize protections for wildlife and culturally sacred sites.

The Northern Chumash Tribal Council is championing the effort toward the establishment of this marine sanctuary. If designated, it will be the first Tribal-led and Tribal-nominated marine sanctuary in the United States. Tribal co-management would uphold the history of Indigenous stewardship dedicated to these lands and waters, and set the sanctuary up for the best chance of success at conserving birds and wildlife for years to come.

You have until October 25 to weigh in and support this essential marine sanctuary. Take action today and submit your comment to NOAA.