New Hope Spot Designation
The Greater Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries have been named a Mission Blue Hope Spot — one of the most prestigious recognitions in global ocean conservation! This expanded designation now covers over 4,500 square miles of ocean within the California Current, one of the most productive ecosystems on Earth. As a Hope Spot Champion, GFA is proud to help bring global recognition — and renewed commitment — to protecting these extraordinary waters for future generations.
Please view a short video narrated by legendary oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle…
Dr. Sylvia Earle, Founder of Mission Blue, celebrates the addition of the Sanctuaries to the Hope Spot network, sharing, “The Greater Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries embrace over 4,500 square miles of ocean just outside the Golden Gate Bridge of San Francisco, California.” She continues, “There is hope in the resilience of this cold water environment and even greater vigilance in protective measures are called for. Putting a healthy ocean at the heart of decision making is essential so that effective protection of coastal marine carbon cycles, sinks, and reservoirs can help mitigate the effects of climate change and support biodiversity.”
Building on this vision, a powerful team dedicated to the continued protection of this region have joined as Hope Spot Champions: Danielle Lipski, Acting Superintendent of the Greater Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries; Monika Krach, Executive Director of the Greater Farallones Association (GFA); and Gavin Chilcott, Board President of the Cordell Marine Sanctuary Foundation (CMSF). Together, they are dedicated to deepening protection and public awareness of the region’s ecological richness.