What are MPA Petitions *History  *Current Status   *Key Players *VCCFA's Position *Partner Positions *What Can You Do

What are MPA Petitions

Marine Protected Areas along California’s coast are not fixed in place forever. Through the current MPA petition process before the California Fish and Game Commission, proposals are actively being reviewed that could expand, restrict, or reshape fishing access based on new science and stakeholder input. For commercial fishermen, this represents a rare and critical opportunity to influence real decisions that will impact our fisheries for years to come. Your voice matters now more than ever.

History

California’s Marine Protected Areas were never intended to remain static—and today, they are actively being reconsidered through a multi-year process led by the California Fish and Game Commission. From early public outreach in 2022 to the submission of petitions, scientific review, and ongoing statewide meetings, this process has been shaped by years of input from fishermen, tribes, scientists, and the public. Understanding how we got here is key to understanding what comes next.

Current Status

California’s MPA petition process is now in an active 2026 review phase, with the Fish and Game Commission holding regional meetings to evaluate petitions, hear public input, and consider possible future rulemaking. Our page explains where the process stands, what happens next, and why these decisions matter for coastal communities, fisheries, and marine access. 

Key Players 

Decisions on Marine Protected Area (MPA) petitions don’t just happen at the final vote—they’re shaped by a network of agencies, scientists, policymakers, and stakeholder groups long before reaching the California Fish and Game Commission. Understanding who these key players are is critical to understanding the outcome. Our Key Influencers in the MPA Process page breaks down who holds influence, how decisions are shaped, and where different voices—including the fishing community—fit into the process. 

VCCFA's Position 

Decisions are being made right now that will directly impact where and how commercial fishing can operate along California’s coast—and VCCFA is taking a clear, science-based position on every MPA petition under review by the California Fish and Game Commission. Not all petitions are equal—some protect opportunity, while others threaten to reduce it without justification. Our positions are built on data, real-world experience, and a commitment to defending sustainable fishing access.  

Partner Positions

Stay informed on the future of California’s coastal fisheries by exploring our Partner Positions page, where we’ve compiled the latest publicly available perspectives from commercial fishing organizations, regional associations, and industry partners on current Marine Protected Area (MPA) petitions before the California Fish and Game Commission. This page provides a clear, transparent look at how different groups are approaching these critical decisions—grounded in science, access, and sustainability—so you can better understand the broader conversation shaping our working waterfronts and coastal communities. 

What can you do to contribute?

The future of California’s coastal fisheries—and access to fresh, wild-caught seafood—depends on decisions being made right now. But this process isn’t just for policymakers; it’s open to fishermen, seafood consumers, business owners, and anyone who values local, sustainable food. Our What Can You Do to Contribute? page breaks down what’s at stake, how proposed MPA changes could impact access and supply, and the simple steps you can take to make your voice heard—from submitting comments to attending meetings. 

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What are MPA Petitions *History  *Current Status   *Key Players *VCCFA's Position *Partner Positions *What Can You Do