1. Protect migrating and nesting seabirds on both north and south facing cliffs. Some colonies on the south cliffs are home to more than 8,000 birds including Cormorants, Common Murres, and Pigeon Guillemots.

2. Protect seal haul-outs (places where seals rest and reproduce) during critical reproductive seasons.

3. Create opportunities for the thousands of annual visitors to Cape Lookout to learn more about the area’s natural resources – and how to enjoy them safely and responsibly.

Cape Lookout offers a rare view of biodiversity we all must cherish if we are to survive on this planet, and offers a high-impact opportunity to preserve pristine and critical rocky habitats.

The proposed Marine Conservation Area will include rocky habitats and nearshore kelp beds that surround Cape Lookout.

MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

We are proposing no change to coastwide commercial and recreational fish harvest regulations. The harvest of clams, Dungeness crab, red rock crab, mussels, piddocks, scallops, squid, shrimp, and sand crab will remain open. The proposal does not restrict boat access and anchorage.

Photo: Caren Willoughby

Photo: Roy Lowe

USFWS file photo