Biden Designates Chumash Marine Sanctuary in California

The Biden administration has designated the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary off the Central California coast, marking the first national marine sanctuary proposed by Indigenous people. Encompassing 4,543 square miles, it becomes the third-largest marine sanctuary in the U.S., protecting the area from oil drilling and undersea mining while allowing fishing. Managed in partnership with local tribes, the sanctuary aims to preserve cultural resources and biodiversity while promoting environmental education and monitoring the impacts of climate change. Led by the Northern Chumash Tribe, this initiative aligns with the Biden administration's 'America the Beautiful' initiative to conserve 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. The designation has been celebrated by tribal leaders and lawmakers as a victory for environmental protection and Indigenous rights. The sanctuary is set to take effect in December 2024.