Regulated Navigation Areas; Harbor Entrances Along the Coast of Northern California

Résumé

The Coast Guard is proposing to establish Regulated Navigation Areas (RNAs) at the harbor bar entrances to Crescent City Harbor, Humboldt Bay, Noyo River, and Morro Bay. The proposed regulation would create additional safety requirements for recreational and small commercial vessels operating in these areas during periods of hazardous conditions, such as high wind or breaking surf, as well as establish clear procedures for restricting and closing these harbor bar entrances in the event of unsafe conditions. The proposed regulation is necessary to enhance mariner and vessel safety when crossing the bars exceeds parameters, typically when breaking seas are projected to be 20-foot or greater. The proposed rulemaking would prohibit vessels from entering these areas during unsafe conditions unless authorized by the local Captain of the Port or a designated representative. We invite your comments on this proposed rulemaking.