Amend Subsection (c)(9) of Section 165, and Subsections (c), and (k)(2)(I) of Section 165.5, Title 14, CCR, Regarding Commercial Bull Kelp Harvest Restrictions

The regulatory amendments extend temporary restrictions on commercial bull kelp harvesting in Del Norte, Humboldt, Mendocino, and Sonoma counties through January 1, 2029, delaying the original sunset date of January 1, 2026. These measures include maintaining a weekly reporting requirement for bull kelp harvests in Del Norte and Humboldt counties and preserving the closure of three administrative kelp beds in Del Norte, Humboldt, and Mendocino counties that are designated for exclusive lease-only harvesting. The amendments also correct a coordinate error associated with administrative kelp bed 109 to ensure accurate regulatory enforcement. The actions are implemented under Title 14, California Code of Regulations, Sections 165 and 165.5, and are supported by categorical exemptions under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), specifically Sections 15307 and 15308, which apply to minor land alterations and emergency regulatory adjustments. The California Fish and Game Commission, with implementation led by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, oversees enforcement and monitoring of these restrictions, with ongoing assessment of bull kelp biomass through satellite data to inform broader restoration efforts. No federal contract clauses, pricing, or procurement mechanisms apply, as this is a state-level regulatory action aimed at marine ecosystem conservation; no contractor obligations, payment terms, delivery schedules, or invoicing systems are involved. The only point of contact provided is Melissa Miller-Henson, Executive Director of the Fish and Game Commission, with correspondence directed to the Office of Planning and Research in Sacramento.