Exploring California’s Marine Protected Areas: Farnsworth Onshore State Marine Conservation Area and Farnsworth Offshore State Marine Conservation Area

Located around 20 miles off the Southern California mainland, Santa Catalina Island is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy island living. Kayak tours, glass bottom boats, jet ski excursions, and snorkeling

Exploring California’s Marine Protected Areas: Kashtayit State Marine Conservation Area

Sunset at Kashtayit State Marine Conservation Area
CDFW photo by T. Heitzenrater

Have you ever wanted to fall asleep listening to the sound of ocean waves crashing along the shore, or wake up to the sound of seagulls calling in the morning? Not far from Santa Barbara

The Santa Barbara Channel Marine Protected Area Collaborative: Connecting with the Galapagos of North America

Yellowfin fringehead peeks out of a hole at Campus Point State Marine Conservation Area, Santa Barbara County
photo ©MarcoMazza, CC BY-NC 2.0

Ventura and Santa Barbara counties are situated north of Los Angeles along the Southern California coastline. Although distinct, these neighboring counties share jurisdiction over an area known as the “Galapagos of North America” – the Northern Channel Islands (NCIs).

CDFW Questionnaire to Gather Grunion Hunter Knowledge

California grunion spawning on a sandy Southern California beach

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) would like to hear from California grunion hunters! A new questionnaire is available on the CDFW website to capture grunion hunters’ input. Your participation can help CDFW to better understand the recreational fishery.

2020 California Grunion Run Schedule Now Available

California grunion come ashore to spawn on a Southern California beach
photo by heather, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Editor’s Note: Many local authorities have temporarily closed access to beaches due to public safety concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please check with city or county authorities for information about specific beaches.

The 2020 schedule of expected California grunion runs is now available on the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website.

Grunion are famous for their spawning behavior. From March through August, these fish surf the waves