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There is no single formula for success, and most fishing communities attempting to make this transition will require financial assistance. A fisheries revolving loan fund (conceived of by Environmental Defense) for fishermen and their communities is in the works. The Coastal Conservancy and California Ocean Protection Council together have committed $101,000 towards its development. Initial capitalization of up to $2 million is expected to follow. To make sure that fishermen continue to have access to the city dock, the Nature Conservancy has offered to help pay part of the operating costs temporarily.

The hope is that commercial fishing can continue as part of the fabric of life in Morro Bay even with growing numbers of visitors and new residents—including retirees from the Central Valley and coastal metropolitan areas to the north and south—who come to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of the region. Morro Bay is a great place for birding. In addition to enjoying the wildlife, however, these new residents may also increase the demand for locally caught seafood.

Meanwhile, the city is continuing to improve public access to its waterfront. The latest project is Harborwalk, a new mile-long path that will link the waterfront’s commercial retail and fishing area with the beaches surrounding Morro Rock. Funded in part by $500,000 from the Coastal Conservancy, it is to open on Memorial Day, 2006.

A million people now visit the Morro Bay waterfront every year. Soon more will come. If the fishing industry succeeds in making the turnaround to sustainability, visitors will be offered local seafood. The Millers might try the local albacore, boccacio, cabezon, or lingcod and discover new reasons to return.

Copyright 2005 © California Coastal Conservancy All Rights Reserved.