HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolutions 2011-154 N.C.S. 11/07/2011 Resolution No. 2011 -154 N.C.S.
of the City of Petaluma, California
IN SUPPORT OF THE GULF OF THE FARALLONES AND
CORDELL BANK NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARIES
BOUNDARY MODIFICATION AND PROTECTION ACT
WHEREAS, inclusion in the National Marine Sanctuary system offers comprehensive
and permanent protection to marine resources, large scale ecosystem management, and vital
oceanic research investments, while allowing for recreational, shipping and fishing activities;
and,
WHEREAS, Sonoma and Marin coastal waters just south of Bodega head are within the
boundaries of the Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries and
enjoy the protections and benefits of the National Marine Sanctuary program; and,
WHEREAS, the Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries
Boundary Modification and Protection Act, authored by Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey, would
adjust the boundaries of the two existing sanctuaries north and westward to add deeper and
biologically important waters, and would extend the boundaries of the Gulf of the Farallones
National Marine Sanctuary up to the Gualala River, thus including the entire Sonoma County
coast; and,
WHEREAS, the Sonoma County coast is one of the most biologically rich regions in the
world and National Marine Sanctuaries are only designated in areas that have special biological
significance. These waters are within one of the four coastal upwelling zones on the planet,
comprising only one percent of the ocean but producing twenty percent of the world's fish.
Additionally, its coastal estuaries are important passages for endangered salmon and steelhead,
essential haul -outs for seals and sea lions, and prolific nurseries for hundreds of aquatic species;
and,
WHEREAS, these important resources, among the richest on the planet, must be
protected from oil spills and other forms of pollution; and,
WHEREAS, by expanding the boundaries of the Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell
Bank Sanctuaries, the bill will protect the Bodega Marine laboratory's investment in marine
research, regional jobs that are dependent on a tourist economy, recreational uses, and
indefinable aesthetic benefits. And because the Bill will protect fish habitat, it will protect the
livelihoods of commercial fisherman; and,
Resolution No. 2011 -154 N.C.S. Page 1
WHEREAS, a congressional moratorium on offshore oil exploration and exploitation in
these waters is at risk each year in a changing political climate, thus protection must be made
permanent.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Petaluma City Council does hereby
endorse the Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries Boundary
Modification and Protection Act and supports its passage.
Under the power and authority conferred upon this Council by the Charter of said City.
REFERENCE: I hereby certify the foregoing Resolution was introduced and adopted by the Ap oied as to
Council of the City of Petaluma at a Regular meeting on the 7 day of November, fel
2011, by the following vote:
City Atrorney
AYES: Barrett, Mayor Glass, Harris, Vice Mayor Healy, Kearney, Renee
NOES: None
ABSENT: Albertson
ABSTAIN: None
'//
ATTEST: 1L4'.' Jim 1e/ t ow-3,p,
i eputy City Cl • r Mayor
Resolution No. 2011 -154 N.C.S. Page 2