San Diego County has 11 of California’s 124 marine protected areas, or MPA’s. These areas are designed to preserve marine life by limiting human activity.  The California Department of Fish and Game is discussing whether or not to expand the existing Cabrillo Marine Reserve in San Diego.

 

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Ana Ramirez

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John Kelley

Roger Wilson

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A tope sharks and other fish swim among kelp inside of the Matlahuayl State Marine Reserve on Sunday, Feb. 18, 2025 in San Diego , CA. (Ana Ramirez / The San Diego Union-Tribune)Tope sharks and other fish swim among kelp inside of the Matlahuayl State Marine Reserve on Sunday, Feb. 18, 2025 in San Diego, CA. (Ana Ramirez / The San Diego Union-Tribune)