Southern California has witnessed the decline of fisheries over several decades. This is of particular concern in the LA region's urban ocean where environmental impacts from increased runoff and pollution, as well as increased recreational fishing, negatively impact fish stocks, such as in the case of the spotted sand bass. Protecting ecosystems by designating marine protected areas through the California Marine Life Protected Act (MLPA) will abet some commercial and recreational fisheries management tools. Developing well-designed aquaculture projects will also help to mediate recreational and commercial fishing pressure on local fishery stocks.
Sustainable aquaculture is an important societal need that will continue to grow in the future. With collapsing fish stocks and an increasing national demand for seafood, it is clear that natural fish stocks will not be able to sustain the fisheries markets. Learn more...
Increased attention to the safety of domestic and international seafood has created an urgent need for certification programs and standards for domestic and international seafood products so that consumers will have reliable information to guide their buying decisions. Learn more...
Commercial and recreational fishing have always been important to Southern California's economy and as a local source of protein for southern California residents. Learn more...
