Since there is already a closure in place for black, green, pink and white abalone in these areas this closure effectively bans the take of all abalone south of San Francisco. The Fish and Game Commission is responding to overwhelming evidence of a collapse of the abalone population due to disease and over fishing. Heavy pressure also came from representatives from the sport diving community calling for the closure. The effort to place permanent mooring buoys at popular dive sites around Catalina Island has taken its first step forward. This spring a non-profit corporation was formed for the installation and eventual maintenance of the mooring buoys.
Planning is already underway.
The raising of funds can now begin with installation close behind. For many years now the use of permanent mooring buoys has-been standard practice at popular tropical dive sites to preserve delicate coral reefs from anchor damage. 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.