In 2013, a partnership between with the California Academy of Sciences, the Point Reyes National Seashore, and the Environmental Action Committee of West Marin was established to create a citizen-science monitoring project that trains volunteers to observe and record human uses within Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) within Marin County. The goal is to better understand the type and frequency of uses
within our MPAs, and to educate the public about their importance. The State of California has designated Marine Conservation Areas in Marin at Point Reyes, Drakes Estero, and Duxbury Reef. Additionally, State Marine Reserves are in place at Point Reyes/Drakes Bay and Limantour Estero. There are also special closure areas that protect seabird nesting colonies and seal haulout areas. In time, it is hoped that these special protections will enhance the productivity and biodiversity of these biologically important areas. MPA Watch volunteers walk along beaches and bluffs observing and recording both "consumptive" activities such as fishing, and "non-consumptive" activities like wildlife watching and beach uses. These observations provide information to help with MPA management going forward. If you love to walk magnificent beaches in Point Reyes National Seashore then this is the perfect volunteer opportunity for you! Volunteers monitor MPAs on a weekly basis for 2-4 hours. Volunteers may sign up for weekly, bi-weekly or monthly beach shifts.
