Coast commission plan faces fierce protest in public hearing
The California State Coastal Commission unveiled a draft marine element of its coastal management plan in Los Angeles, drawing sharp opposition from environmental groups like the California Coastal Alliance and Sierra Club and criticism from industry and government agencies for being too broad and weak on protections and economic needs. The plan focuses on wetlands, estuaries, kelp beds, and marshlands, aiming to shield coastal resources and even restore some marshes, while debates continue over landings limits, dredging, and siting of power plants.