October 11, 2024 marks a historic date for the marine conservation and for them indigenous peoples of the United States. The Biden administration announced the creation of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuarya vast marine sanctuary along California’s central coast, the result of a decades-long campaign by the Northern Chumash Tribal Council (NCTC). This new protected area, but also represents an important step in recognition of the rights of indigenous communities.
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A sanctuary to protect the oceans
The new sanctuary covers 4,543 square miles (11,000 km²) of coastal waters along 116 miles (186.7 kilometers) of shoreline, between San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. It is the third largest marine sanctuary in the United States And the first to be named by an indigenous tribe. But this designation has a meaning that goes beyond its size: it is a sign of respect for the Chumash peoplewhich for millennia has lived in symbiosis with the waters of the Californian coast, considering them sacred.
Kenneth Khanpresident of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, said, “Generations of policies have disadvantaged Native Americans, but today that is changing. The Chumash Tribe has never relinquished the right to manage our traditional lands, and we are grateful that NOAA recognizes our inherent sovereignty by welcoming us as co-stewards of the sanctuary that bears our name.”
Biodiversity protection and indigenous co-management
In addition to important cultural significance, the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary plays a crucial role in protecting biodiversity. The waters included in the sanctuary are an ecological transition zone of global significance, home to a rich variety of marine faunaincluding threatened species such as leatherback turtlethe blue whale and the southern sea otters. He will prohibit new ones oil drilling And mining activitiesprotecting critical habitats of kelp forestsfundamental for carbon storage and climate regulation.
The sanctuary will also offer environmental and cultural awareness opportunities, allowing visitors to discover not only the ecology of the area, but also the deep connection between the Chumash and their marine environment. Violet Sage Walkerchairman of the Northern Chumash Tribal Council, dedicated this victory to his father, Fred Collinswho led the battle for the creation of the sanctuary: «Every step we have taken towards this dream has a special meaning. This sanctuary not only protects our heritage, but begins to heal centuries of wounds for our people.”
A model for the future of conservation
The designation of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary is also an important precedent for the future of ocean conservation in the United States. Joint management between NOAA and the Chumash Tribe represents a model of inclusion of indigenous knowledge in environmental policieswith the aim of promoting sustainable and nature-based solutions.
Joel R. Johnsonpresident of the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, underlined the importance of this step: «The designation of this sanctuary is historic. It not only protects the natural wonders of California’s coastal waters, but promotes justice and fairness. The Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary celebrates the millennia-old traditions of indigenous communities, bringing them to the center of ocean management.”
A positive impact on the local economy
In addition to protecting the marine ecosystem, the sanctuary will have a positive economic impact for the Central Coast region. It is estimated that will create 600 new jobs, generating approximately $23 million per year thanks to tourism linked toecotourism and environmental education. Sustainable tourism will offer local communities an economic alternative to extractive activities, strengthening the link between environmental conservation and the economy.
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Gianna Patchendel Saint Lucia Sierra Club Chapterspoke of community commitment: «Our community has worked for forty years to protect this coast. The power of collective effort has allowed us to reach this milestone, and we are excited to make the sanctuary the best it can be for future generations.”
A signal for the future: protect 30% of the oceans by 2030
The creation of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary fits within the Biden administration’s broader commitment to protect 30% of US lands and waters by 2030. At a time when the oceans face unprecedented challenges due to climate change and pollutionthis sanctuary represents hope for the future.
Maite Arcepresident of Hispanic Access Foundationdeclared: «We celebrate the creation of the sanctuary, the fruit of a 40-year campaign. This victory sets a powerful precedent for future ocean protections, thanks to the tireless work of the Northern Chumash Tribal Council and indigenous communities.”
