MPAs were designed through a collaborative public process. Regional stakeholder groups were formed that included people who were knowledgeable in the uses and/or resources of the planning region. Members included commercial and recreational anglers, tribal and government representatives, educators, researchers, and conservationists. Each group worked together to design MPA proposals for each region. Once the MPA proposals were completed, they were reviewed and evaluated by a science advisory team, the CDFW, MLPA Initiative staff, and a policy-level blue ribbon task force. Based on these evaluations and public input, MPA proposals were then refined by the regional stakeholder group and presented to a blue ribbon task force, which made recommendations to the California Fish and Game Commission for adoption and implementation.
Overview of Alternative Marine Protected Area Proposals (PDF)
The Marine Life Protection Act Initiative (2004 – 2012)