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SoCal Sea Turtles Could Get New Habitat Protections
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Stock photo by Giorgia Doglioni
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Unsplash
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Topline:
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration wants to designate areas across North America as critical habitats to protect sea turtles.
What this would do: The designation would mandate that federal agencies consult with NOAA to make sure habitats and the plants turtles need to survive aren't destroyed. Only people who hold federal permits for projects in critical habitats would be affected. Beachgoers and local fisheries would be allowed to carry on as usual.
Why it matters: Southern California sea turtles are currently at threatened status, meaning they are likely to be endangered in the near future. San Diego Bay, Santa Monica Bay, Catalina Island and Long Beach are some of the areas affected.
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Perspective: "In California, some of our concerns are damage to its foraging and resting habitats," said Jennifer Schultz, a fishery biologist at NOAA. "Climate change can alter the environment; maybe where seagrass runs through, it won't be able to grow anymore."
What's next: NOAA will decide on the proposal after the public comment deadline in October. For now, the Southern California sea turtle population is actually growing: a good sign for the species.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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