Duxbury Reef is a unique and highly vulnerable rocky intertidal reef that deserves more protection. It is one of the largest shale reefs in North America and is home to over 200 species.
In 2023, we submitted a petition to the Fish & Game Commission about our recommendation for a proposed regulation change that would better protect Duxbury Reef’s unique and vulnerable intertidal habitat and the amazing creatures that live there, like crabs, turban snails, and octopi. Our request is based on the peer-reviewed science that fully protected reserves are the most effective in preserving and restoring biodiversity and in gaining public understanding of regulations, and based on Marin MPA Watch human use data, which has shown high levels of visitation and unpermitted take at the reef, as well as the recommendations of local agencies and scientists. Compliance is higher with clearer regulations, and the number of harmful activities will likely be reduced in a marine reserve. We note that whatever happens in the regulatory process will not impact “non-consumptive” recreational uses—things like tidepooling, surfing, boating, education, research, dog walking, or visiting the reef.
What’s New?
Following conversations with community members and new information that informed us a portion of our petition was mapped larger than we requested, we sent a letter to the Commission in November requesting an informal amendment to our petition, seeking a reduction in the offshore portions of our petition request and emphasizing our focus on intertidal protection. These changes intend to maintain offshore commercial and recreational fishing uses, which we know is of significant concern to the local community.
We also understand shorefishing access is a significant community priority. Since the fall, we have attended several Bolinas Civic Group meetings on the topic, hearing community questions, concerns, and suggestions. Last week, we met with Supervisor Rodoni’s office and community representatives and discussed our shared values around the reef and potential ways to move forward. This was a good start to what will become many more conversations, and we plan to continue exploring ways to work together, a desire that has been echoed by Supervisor Rodoni, Marin County Parks, and Congressman Huffman.
We are open to balanced solutions that could allow for some fishing while still providing greater regulatory protection for this sensitive habitat and special place—a need that has been highlighted by educators, scientists, professors, and environmental groups.
If you have questions or comments about the petition, please reach out to Isabel.
