Demystifying the Public Process of Fisheries Management & Conservation

The FGC is responsible for managing the use of California’s fish and wildlife, including approving regulations for state-managed fisheries (e.g., CA spiny lobster, spot prawn, market squid). The Commission is composed of five commissioners, and three committees: (1) Tribal Committee; (2) Wildlife Resources Committee; and (3) Marine Resources Committee (responsible for all marine resource matters). The FGC meets twelve times a year, alternating decision meetings with its Marine Resources Committee and Wildlife Resources Committee.

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CDFW is a state agency charged with managing California's fish, wildlife, and plant resources. The agency implements and enforces the regulations and legislative directives set by FGC. CDFW also conducts science and provides expertise to policymakers to help them better understand the state’s natural resources. When given statutory authority to do so, CDFW develops regulations (e.g., RAMP regulations, Standardized Commercial Trap Marking Program).

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The OPC is a seven-member cabinet-level council tasked with coordinating the activities of the ocean-related state agencies. While the OPC has no independent rule-making authority, the Council oversees the use of best available science in state decisions and actions and promotes the use of science among all entities involved in the management of ocean resources. The OPC also makes decisions about the distribution of funding for ocean-related projects and issues.

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The CCC is a state agency that oversees land use and water in the coastal zone. It does so through careful planning, science, intergovernmental coordination, public participation, and education. CCC often requires permits for projects that impact water or access, such as building construction or activities that change public access to coastal waters. The CCC also administers the federal Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA), which includes other uses of the marine space (aquaculture, offshore renewable, etc.). The CCC is composed of 12 voting members, six chosen from the general public, and six appointed elected officials, as well as three non-voting members.

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The SLC is responsible for managing 4 million acres of tide and submerged lands, riverbeds, streams, lakes, bays, estuaries, inlets, and straits throughout California. SLC issues leases, provides public access, resolves boundaries, and implements regulatory programs to protect state waters from pollution and invasive species. The SLC plays a role in permitting offshore renewable energy projects off the California coast. The Commission consists of three members: the Lieutenant Governor, the State Controller, and the Governor’s Director of Finance.

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