By Joshua Emerson Smith / San Diego Union Tribune
Not entirely endorsed by law enforcement, tactics include outreach and education to fishermen on the water — many of whom have bristled at the loss of favorite angling spots and in some cases include wily poachers.
Department of Fish and Game officials don’t have the resources to consistently patrol these so-called marine protected areas or MPAs and appreciate the extra eyes. But while tips are welcome, the department has discouraged contacts on the water.
Designed over several years by advocates in Los Angeles, the program recently hooked San Diego-based Wildcoast, which is ramping up efforts to monitor sections of the county’s network of underwater state parks at least once a week.