#localsupportlocal
What is the mission of the state Parks association?
The Central Coast State Parks Association (CCSPA), in partnership with California State Parks in San Luis Obispo County, supports interpretation, education and volunteer efforts while promoting public awareness and stewardship of our natural resources and cultural heritage. Our organization is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit, and we are one of 85 similar cooperating associations across the state who work in partnership with the state parks.
Can you give us guidelines about how to not impact nature in a negative way when we go explore outside?
State Parks are places where preservation and recreation meet. State Parks aim to preserve and protect the natural and cultural resources of the park, as well as provide a space for visitors to enjoy. There are many ways that visitors can recreate responsibly while exploring parks. Whether it is by being mindful of your surroundings and picking up after yourself, giving wildlife plenty of space, respecting closures and following trails, or adhering to any local regulations, we can all do our part to keep our State Parks places for all (wildlife and people alike) to enjoy. If you want to learn more about best practices for exploring our parks as well as park updates and events, you can follow our Instagram (@ccspateam) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/StateParksAssociation) where we actively post updates for the State Parks in San Luis Obispo County!
Can you talk about the central coast reef, his wealth and how we can protect it?
Much of the ocean adjacent to San Luis Obispo County are Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). MPAs are crucial in maintaining healthy and abundant marine ecosystems as well as promoting biodiversity and responsible recreation. They are sanctuaries for all kinds of wildlife, serving as homes for hundreds of marine life, birds, plants, and multiple endangered species. Marine mammals like the harbor seal, southern sea otter, and California sea lion forage through the kelp forests for food. Invertebrates like crabs and clams live underneath the mud and silt. Hundreds of seabirds and shorebirds migrate to these areas to rest and eat. There are even hydrocorals (cold water soft corals) in the Point Buchon MPA! The best way to protect these spaces is by following any designated MPA guidelines, as each MPA has unique rules. You can also check out www.respect-wildlife.org for more information on best practices when encountering and viewing wildlife.
Interview by Lucie Montagnese for GreenGoods
Special thanks to Monica Rutherford