Stairway to... Seal Heaven? Feds OK Marine Mammal Disturbance for Coastal Fix
Published Date: 5/11/2026
Notice
Summary
The Bureau of Land Management got the green light to replace the Mal Coombs Stairway in Shelter Cove, California, even though some marine mammals might get a little disturbed during the work. This permission lasts for one year starting May 5, 2026, and includes rules to keep the impact on sea creatures as low as possible. The project balances improving public access with protecting local marine life.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Permit Allows Limited Marine Mammal Disturbance
The National Marine Fisheries Service issued an Incidental Harassment Authorization (IHA) that lets the Bureau of Land Management disturb (take by harassment) small numbers of marine mammals while replacing the Mal Coombs Stairway in Shelter Cove, California. The IHA applies for up to 1 year from the IHA-holder's notification and is connected to the issuance date noted as May 5, 2026.
Project Qualifies for NEPA Categorical Exclusion
NMFS determined the stairway replacement fits Categorical Exclusion B4 under NOAA Administrative Order 216-6A, meaning it does not have the potential for significant environmental impacts and is excluded from further NEPA review. That allows the authorized activity to proceed without additional NEPA paperwork under that category.
No Take of Endangered Species Expected
NMFS found that no incidental take of species listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) is authorized or expected for this stairway replacement project, so formal ESA section 7 consultation was not required for this action.
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