1. Where does the money from these donations go?

All of the money goes to the Ocean Access Protection Fund (OAPF), which was formed to collect funds for legal action against policies that do not recognize the conservation efforts of fishermen, or impact recreational access to the ocean on behalf of all California anglers and outdoor enthusiasts concerned with maintaining public access. All of these monies will go to fighting the MLPA on behalf of recreational anglers. For more info on OAPF visit oceanaccessprotectionfund.org.

2. Are donations tax deductible?

Yes, all donations made are tax deductible. 

3. Who are some of the other groups working to fight the MLPA?

Several California groups as well as national organizations are working to combat the MPA and MLPA initiatives. Some of the groups include the United Anglers of Southern California, the Partnership for Sustainable Oceans, the American Sportfishing Association, supporting members of the Avalon Tuna Club, Coastside Fishing Club, International Game Fish Association, Kayak Fishing Association of California, National Marine Manufacturers Association, NorCal Kayak Anglers, Southern California Marine Association, Sportfishing Association of California and the Watermen’s Alliance.

4. Are there more ways to help?

There are several ways to help. You can volunteer, attend meetings and work with the groups mentioned above. You can also print out brochures and pass themn out to fellow anglers and boaters. Click here for a link to the brochure. 

5. Where can I go to learn more about the MPA and MLPA process and how it might affect me?

There are many organizations that offer information on the Internet. You can start by visiting the United Anglers of Southern California at unitedanglers.com as well as the Ocean Access Protection Fund website at oceanaccessprotectionfund.org. Another great resource full of information is the Keep America Fishing website’s Pacific region page at keepamericafishing.org. These organizations and the men and women who work for them are great resources for information.

6. What are the different types of MPAs?

The three types of MPAs that can be established under the MLPA: 1) State Marine Reserves, which prohibit recreational fishing and all other forms of recreational and commercial “extraction.” 2) State Marine Parks, which place limits on recreational fishing and ban commercial fishing. 3) State Marine Conservation Areas, in which only certain activities that compromise the integrity of the area might be limited. Some forms of recreational and commercial fishing may be allowed.