Designing a network of marine protected areas in California: Achievements, costs, lessons learned, and challenges ahead

► California completed design of a statewide network of marine protected areas. ► The new network covers 16% of state waters and represents most marine habitats. ► The process advanced marine science and policy, public awareness and capacity. ► The public process took 7 years, $38 million, and thousands of volunteer hours. ► Implementation challenges include monitoring, enforcement, and adaptive management.