San Diego, CA – The recent wildfires that swept through the Los Angeles area have caused widespread devastation, not only on land but also with far-reaching consequences for our oceans and marine ecosystems. Ocean Sanctuaries, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering citizen scientists, is calling attention to the often-overlooked connection between wildfires and ocean health and outlining actionable steps to aid recovery efforts.
Wildfires and Ocean Health: A Critical Connection
While wildfires are typically viewed as a terrestrial issue, their effects extend into marine ecosystems through interconnected environmental systems. Here are the key ways the LA fires impact ocean health:
Runoff and Pollution: Post-fire rains wash ash, debris, and chemicals into rivers and storm drains, leading to ocean pollution. This runoff can fuel harmful algal blooms and deplete oxygen levels, endangering marine life.
Airborne Particles and Ocean Chemistry: Wildfires release particulate matter and carbon dioxide, which can alter ocean chemistry and contribute to acidification.
Loss of Coastal Vegetation: Fires that encroach on coastal habitats destroy natural barriers, accelerating the flow of pollutants into marine ecosystems.
A Call to Action: Supporting Communities and Ecosystems
Ocean Sanctuaries emphasizes the importance of a united effort to address the aftermath of wildfires and protect both terrestrial and marine environments. The organization urges individuals, communities, and policymakers to take the following steps:
Supporting People and Communities:
- Donate to Relief Efforts: Contribute to organizations aiding displaced families and first responders.
- Promote Fire-Resilient Practices: Advocate for better land management to reduce future wildfire risks.
- Engage in Education: Raise awareness about the connection between wildfires and ocean health through local workshops or online platforms.
Protecting Wildlife and Oceans:
- Participate in Coastal Cleanups: Join local initiatives to remove debris and pollutants before they reach the ocean.
- Support Restoration Projects: Contribute to efforts to replant native vegetation and restore wetlands that act as natural pollution filters.
- Advocate for Policy Changes: Push for stricter pollutant regulations and wildfire management strategies that consider marine impacts.
Ocean Sanctuaries: Turning Challenges into Opportunities“The LA fires serve as a powerful reminder of how deeply interconnected our ecosystems are,” said Barbara Llyod, President of Ocean Sanctuaries. “By taking meaningful action, we can help protect the ocean, which is critical to global biodiversity and human well-being.”
Ocean Sanctuaries is committed to empowering individuals to make a measurable impact through its citizen science programs. From documenting marine biodiversity to restoring coastal habitats, these initiatives enable everyone to contribute to ocean health.
Get Involved
To support Ocean Sanctuaries or learn more about their programs, visit oceansanctuaries.org. Together, we can ensure that recovery from disasters like the LA fires includes rebuilding on land and protecting the oceans that sustain us all.
Media Contact:
Michael Bear
Co-Founder
Ocean Sanctuaries
+1.858.633.7305
[email protected]oceansanctuaries.orgAbout Ocean Sanctuaries
Ocean Sanctuaries is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering citizen scientists to protect marine ecosystems. Through training, tools, and community engagement, Ocean Sanctuaries provides opportunities for individuals to contribute to meaningful conservation efforts.