While nowhere near as delicate as coral reefs, it is hoped that the installation of permanent mooring buoys at popular sites at Catalina will prevent permanent damage to kelp forest eco-systems. Currently, the project is being lead by Steve Madaras of Catalina Scuba Luv. Contributions to the project have already been made by the PADI Aware Foundation, the Catalina Conservancy Divers and several concerned individuals. Installation of the first buoys could be expected as early as this winter. Numerous leopard sharks are reported to be congregating in the shallows off the front side of San Clemente Island.
Leopard sharks range in size from three to six feet long and school in the shallows in the summer.
Usually shy creatures, the sharks become preoccupied with mating and can be approached by snorkelers. Look on sand and gravel bottoms in 20 feet of water or less. In calm areas they can be found in water as shallow as three feet. The reports from San Clemente Island indicate dozens of sharks, some quite large, crowded into small pockets in the reef. Although considered harmless.