National Monuments

On behalf of the 46 undersigned organizations, these comments are submitted on the Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Notice of Opportunity for Public Comment on the Review of National Marine Sanctuaries and Marine National Monuments Designated or Expanded Since April 28, 2007, 82 Fed. Reg. 28,827. While we firmly disagree with the need for and intent of such a review, we appreciate the opportunity to comment on the Review. These comments pertain specifically to the four California National Marine Sanctuary expansions that are included in the Review pursuant to EO 13795: Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary, Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary, and Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

An important component of maintaining ecosystem integrity is setting aside some areas to function with minimal human impacts. When these areas are set aside, fish populations and fisheries may see direct and indirect benefits.

From Earthjustice and Western Environmental Law Center. "It is disturbing that the Secretary has planned several meetings with parties opposed to the Monument’s expansion and who have engaged in litigation challenging the expansion, without public notice to organizations and entities that support the Monument, including Senator Wyden, Senator Merkley, and Governor Brown."