Managing Our Marine Habitats

Tidal pools in Dana Point have become so popular that visitors are putting them at risk. At coastal destinations where the removal of seashells has resulted in fewer hermit crabs, and at trampled inland destinations, environmentalists are seeking to strike a balance between the curiosity of visitors and the need to protect those environs. They need everyone’s help in this effort.

We are hearing more discussion today about ocean pollution than in the past, a good sign. But this is because of the urgency of the issue. While beach closings used to be rare, the runoff from inland has caused many beaches to be inaccessible. Much of the waterfront in Huntington Beach was off-limits last summer.

Congestion in developing inland areas has put new strain on drainage capacity. Precisely as the new residents are increasing their awareness of the environment, their presence is the problem. Environmentalists are warning that unless steps are taken to protect the fragile environment, residents will have to go elsewhere to find cherished habitats.

Some strategies are obvious. Youngsters at the tide pools need to learn not to disturb what they find and to proceed gently. The larger task is the same--how to let people into pristine areas while limiting the damage. The recent proposal to change the way visitors enter the valley in Yosemite demonstrates how pervasive this challenge is. We are at a juncture where the demand for recreation can force drastic steps.

For those wishing to see the marine environment, there are good aquarium options nearby in Long Beach and La Jolla. If we don’t protect the real thing, the alternative may be more limited access. A projected population growth in Orange County to more than 3 million by 2020 makes the urgency of managing the natural environment even more imperative.