An ever-increasing number of coastal communities, regional government organizations, as well as forward-looking politicians, are recognizing that sandy beaches are good for the economy, as well as being beautiful. The beaches are the essence of California, and the basis for much of the State's tourism income and jobs. Here's more information on the importance of beaches to the economy of the State and the Nation:

Report on Coastal Tourism and Recreation - "Year of the Ocean" Discussion Paper


The California Public Beach Restoration Program

Assemblymember Ducheny has re-introduced "The California Public Beach Restoration Program," AB64, which is being co-sponsored by CSBPA and the California Coastal Coalition. The measure will provide annual funding to enhance and restore vital sand to the beaches of California.

CSBPA sponsored this legislation in the 1997-98 session as AB1228. It passed the Assembly by a vote of 56 to 20, but stalled in the Senate Natural Resources and Wildlife Committee in August 1997.

Click on the Bill Number below to review the history and progress of this important legislation.

AB64 Introduced by Assembly Member Ducheny on 7 December 1998.

A new study is available that discusses solutions to the dilemma of coastal erosion, sea level rise and private property protection on retreating coastlines. This issue is of prime concern to members of CSBPA, but care must always be used when applying East and Gulf coast "solutions" to the California coast. According to Dr. James Titus, in a widely distributed e-mail dated 17 February 1999:

"In the next century, the majority of America's publicly owned tidal shorelines could be replaced by a wall, not because anyone decided that this should happen but because no one decided that it should not. Throughout the United States, housing developments are being built just inland of the marshes, swamps, muddy shores, and sandy beaches that collectively comprise the public trust tidelands. Because sea level is rising and most shores are eroding, the water will eventually reach these houses unless either the houses are moved or somehow the sea is held back. Global warming could make this even worse." Dr. Titus continues:
"I am writing to let you know that the Maryland Law Review has just published a study that analyzes solutions to this problem, entitled "Rising Seas, Coastal Erosion, and the Takings Clause: How to Save Wetlands and Beaches Without Hurting Property Owners."
"Disclaimer: the contents of this law review article do not reflect EPA's official view on the matter."

For a hard copy of the report, please email Dr. Titus at titus.jim@epa.gov

Rising Seas, Coastal Erosion, and the Takings Clause Click for Electronic Versions of the Report