The US designates a new marine sanctuary led by Indigenous people

The Biden administration has designated 4,500 square miles of ocean off California's coast as the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary, co-managed with Indigenous groups.

Lauren Sommer reports for NPR.

In short:

• The sanctuary is the first in the U.S. to be led by Indigenous people, nominated by the Northern Chumash Tribe.
• It protects diverse marine ecosystems and sacred Indigenous sites while allowing fishing but banning oil drilling and mining.
• Offshore wind energy projects required a compromise on sanctuary boundaries, with potential future expansion.

Key quote:

"Being able to address climate change, use traditional ecological knowledge, and participate in co-management is Indigenous peoples’ contribution to saving the planet."

— Violet Sage Walker, chairwoman of the Northern Chumash Tribal Council

Why this matters:

This sanctuary strengthens ocean conservation and recognizes Indigenous stewardship. Its co-management model could guide future partnerships in protecting ecosystems threatened by climate change.

Read more: Biden faces choice between advancing offshore wind and honoring tribal heritage in California