National Park Service Considers National Seashore Designation for Los Angeles County Beaches
The National Park Service (NPS) is conducting a special resource study to evaluate the potential of designating a portion of the Los Angeles County coastline as a national seashore. The study area encompasses beaches from Will Rogers State Beach to Torrance Beach, including areas around Ballona Creek and San Pedro, excluding the Port of Los Angeles north of Crescent Avenue. This initiative, directed by Congress in 2022, aims to determine if the area meets the criteria for inclusion in the National Park System.
study Background and Congressional directive
In December 2022, Congress included a provision in appropriations legislation directing the NPS to conduct this special resource study of the Los Angeles coastline (Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023). The study will assess the area’s significance, suitability, feasibility, and the need for NPS management. It will also explore alternative preservation options and associated costs.
What a National Seashore Designation Means
A national seashore designation would offer a high level of protection for the natural and cultural resources of the Los angeles coastline. National seashores are designated for their outstanding natural, recreational, ecological, and historical values. Existing examples include Point Reyes National Seashore in California, Fire Island National Seashore in New York, and Cape Hatteras National Seashore in North Carolina. Designation could lead to increased federal funding for conservation, restoration, and visitor services.
Potential Impacts and Considerations
The study will consider the interplay between a potential national seashore designation and the existing California coastal Act, a state law governing coastal development. The NPS will evaluate how federal management could complement and coordinate with state regulations to ensure effective coastal protection. The study will also assess potential impacts on existing recreational uses, local communities, and private property rights.
Public Input Opportunities
The NPS is actively seeking public input as part of the study process. Opportunities for participation include:
- Virtual Informational Meetings: The NPS hosted virtual meetings on February 11 and March 11, 2026, to provide data and answer questions about the study.
- written Comments: The public can submit written comments through the NPS website. The comment period closed on April 6, 2026.
Next Steps and Timeline
Following the public comment period, the NPS will analyze the information gathered through research and public input. The findings will be compiled into a report to Congress, which will ultimately decide whether to authorize the establishment of a new national seashore in Los Angeles County. The timeline for congressional action is currently uncertain.
Key Takeaways
- The National Park service is studying the feasibility of designating a portion of the Los Angeles coastline as a national seashore.
- the study area spans from Will Rogers State Beach to Torrance Beach, excluding the Port of Los Angeles north of Crescent Avenue.
- Public input is a crucial component of the study process.
- Congress has the final authority to establish a new national seashore.
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