Report underscores water quality, climate

A new report aimed at offering guidance to local, state and federal leaders to improve the health of coastal waters has been released after a Newport Beach City Councilwoman pushed for the study.

Councilwoman Nancy Gardner was one of 18 elected officials from California, Oregon and Washington state who requested the Joint Ocean Commission Initiative report, titled “One Coast, One Future: Securing the Health of West Coast Ecosystems and Economies.”

The report urges leaders to adapt and prepare for climate change impacts through an ecosystem-based approach that recognizes the interconnections among marine life, climate and local economies.

For more information or to download the full version of “One Coast, One Future,” visit www.jointoceancommission.org.

— Brianna Bailey