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. 

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Leadership & Staff

Learn more about the staff working to implement OPC’s strategic priorities. 

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Science Advisory Team

Discover the team ensuring OPC is informed by the best available science.

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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

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 Coast and Ocean Report for a retrospective of activities and accomplishments, plus a suite of preliminary indicators that provide a snapshot of ocean health in California.

Protecting the state’s coast and ocean for all Californians.

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