About Us
The Ocean Protection Council was created pursuant to the California Ocean Protection Act (COPA).
Our People
The Council
Explore the Council’s membership, guiding principles, responsibilities, and meeting details.
Leadership & Staff
Learn more about the staff working to implement OPC’s strategic priorities.
Science Advisory Team
Discover the team ensuring OPC is informed by the best available science.
Our Mission & Vision
Mission
Our mission is to protect California’s coast and ocean by advancing innovative, science-based policy and management, making strategic investments, and catalyzing action through partnerships and collaboration. These efforts yield significant benefits to the state while providing a global model for ecosystem-based protection and conservation.
Vision
The health of California’s people and ecosystems is tied closely to that of our coast and oceans. OPC is charged with safeguarding coastal and ocean ecosystems for the benefit of all Californians, pursuant to a Vision of healthy, resilient, and productive coastal and ocean ecosystems in California, for the benefit of current and future generations.
Our Strategic Plan
Our work is guided by the Strategic Plan to Protect California’s Coast and Ocean: 2020-2025, with a focus on four strategic goals. Click on a goal below to learn more about the partnerships and projects shifting that vision into a reality.
Climate Change
Safeguard Coastal and Marine Ecosystems and Communities in the Face of Climate Change
Equity
Advance Equity Across Ocean and Coastal Policies and Actions
Biodiversity
Enhance Coastal and Marine Biodiversity
Blue Economy
Support Ocean Health through a Sustainable Blue Economy
Annual Coast and Ocean Report & New Report Card
We are committed to reporting annually on implementation of our strategic priorities and providing an overview of critical issues impacting California’s coast and ocean. Read our 2023 Annual State of the Coast and Ocean Report for a retrospective of activities and accomplishments, plus indicators that provide a snapshot of coast and ocean health in California.
Coming in 2026, OPC will release a Report Card that uses a scientific, indicator-based approach to grade California’s coast and ocean health.
Protecting the state’s coast and ocean for all Californians.
Work with Us!
Sign up for our emails to learn about new positions with OPC, and visit the new California Natural Resources Agency Career Center webpage for more job announcements and resources.
To stay updated with OPC’s efforts, follow us on social media, and sign up for emails.