California Extends Red Abalone Fishing Ban Through 2036, Lists Bear Lake Buckwheat as Endangered

CALIFORNIA – The California Fish and Game Commission has extended the recreational red abalone fishery closure along Northern California’s coast until April 1, 2036, aiming to protect the species and support its restoration. The closure, in effect since 2018, was deemed necessary after red abalone populations suffered an 85% decline following the 2014 kelp forest collapse caused by a marine heatwave.

Rising purple sea urchin populations continue to limit kelp recovery, reducing the abalone’s primary food source. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) plans to develop a statewide restoration plan with adaptive strategies to help rebuild red abalone numbers. Enforcement remains active: since the closure, several individuals have been arrested for violations, including a 2020 case in Santa Rosa where a man was fined $40,000 and lost his sportfishing license for possessing 80 abalone. Another poacher was arrested in November 2025 with 15 abalone on the Sonoma Coast.

Bear Lake Buckwheat Listed as Endangered

The Commission also designated Bear Lake buckwheat as endangered under the California Endangered Species Act. This rare subshrub, found exclusively on the south shore of Big Bear Lake in San Bernardino County, faces threats from habitat destruction and human disturbances. A September 2025 survey reported only 744 plants across 1.5 acres—the only known habitat in the world for this species.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.