California’s Coast: The Data Behind the Shoreline
California’s coastline is a massive, high-stakes ecosystem, and as of the 2026 California Coast and Ocean Assessment (found at https://opc.ca.gov/report/), we have a clearer view than ever of its current health. The state’s 124-site Marine Protected Area (MPA) network covers approximately 16% of all coastal state waters, acting as a crucial sanctuary for marine life….
