Search

The coast is a California icon. It powers a robust economy, providesthe home for vibrant communities, and draws visitors from across theplanet to its beautiful beaches and sparkling waters. Recognizing theimportance of this unique resource, California has long been a leader incoastal protection and management. In 2016 California celebrated the 40th anniversary of the CoastalAct. This landmark legislation was enacted in 1976 to enhance publicaccess to the shoreline, protect coastal natural resources, and balancedevelopment and conservation. Over the intervening decades, the state’scoastal management program has evolved into a complex networkoverseen by the Coastal Commission and myriad local, state, federal,nongovernmental, and private partners. Though the road has notalways been smooth, California’s coastal management has enjoyed manycollaborative successes and provided a model for other coastal states andnations. Today, however, the California coast arguably faces the greatestchallenges yet. From surging seas to a growing population, changingconditions stress the state’s coastal governance systems and raisequestions about the best path forward. How will California protectits coast against stronger storms and rising tides? How can the stateensure and support access to its coastline, including for underservedcommunities? And how can the state most effectively work with local,federal, and nongovernment partners to efficiently address these complexchallenges?

The article probes into the existing infrastructure of laws and regulations governing the use of marine resources along the coast of California. It discusses the problems associated with the infrastructure and examines the alternative approaches that can both protect marine ecosystems and reduce user conflicts. Moreover, the authors relate that they aim to foster and describe the emerging dialogue around alternative ocean governance regimes that recognize the legitimate interests of existing stakeholders, various expert agencies and the need for the preservation of California's unique coastal heritage. The authors also suggest the implementation of a structured place-based ecosystem planning and management to achieve resource protection and reduce conflict of interest.