New Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary

A little over a month ago, The Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary became official. In other words, the stretch of land between Avila, Ca and Gaviota, Ca as of November 30th is officially a Marine Sanctuary. The Chumash Heritage Marine Sanctuary is the first of its kind in over 30 years, covering about 4,500 square miles and having access to the open ocean. Additionally, it is the 3rd largest Marine Sanctuary in the U.S.

In celebration of this historic event it is important to acknowledge the hard work and dedication that made the sanctuary possible. The Northern Chumash Tribal Council has been advocating for the marine sanctuary for over 10 years and pushing for its creation for almost fifty years. The sanctuary has not only been the home of ancestral central coast tribes, but cares for a variety of wildlife including: snowy plovers, southern sea otters, leatherback sea turtles, black abalone, and blue.

What’s Next? 

The Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary is an accomplishment unlike any other in the central coast. However, the battle for environmental protection only perseveres. There are hopes to expand the Sanctuary all the way to Cambria in hopes of protecting more wildlife and ancestral waters by 2032. To follow and support the sanctuary’s journey follow the Chumash Heritage Marine Sanctuary on Facebook: @Chumash Sanctuary, Instagram: @ChumashSanctuary, Twitter: @CHNMSanctuary, and Tiktok: @chumash sanctuary.