Big River Estuary State Marine Conservation Area (SMCA)

To preserve this estuary with numerous coastal access points, making research, long-term monitoring, recreation, and enforcement possible. Additionally, the site protects fish and bird communities associated with areas of diverse estuarine habitat and enhances the reproductive capacity of numerous invertebrate species. It protects spawning and nursery grounds for populations that are found offshore. This MPA also protects prime shorebird and waterfowl habitat, feeding areas for pinnipeds, as well as habitat and a transportation corridor for river otters

Species of Concern: Multiple

Restrictions

It is unlawful to injure, damage, take, or possess any living, geological, or cultural marine resource for commercial or recreational purposes, or a combination of commercial and recreational purposes, with exceptions.

Allowed

Recreational surfperch fishing by hook-and-line from shore only, and Dungeness crab by hoop net or hand. Waterfowl may be taken in accordance with the general waterfowl regulations.
Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians of the Big Valley Rancheria, Cahto Indian Tribe of the Laytonville Rancheria, Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians, Elem Indian Colony of Pomo Indians of the Sulphur Bank Rancheria, Guidiville Rancheria, Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake, Hopland Band of Pomo Indians of the Hopland Rancheria, Lower Lake Rancheria, Manchester Band of Pomo Indians of the Manchester-Point Arena Rancheria, Middletown Rancheria of Pomo Indians, Pinoleville Pomo Nation, Potter Valley Tribe, Redwood Valley Rancheria of Pomo Indians, Robinson Rancheria of Pomo Indians, Round Valley Indian Tribes of the Round Valley Reservation, Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians, and Sherwood Valley Rancheria of Pomo Indians are exempt from these area and take regulations.