Leaders in San Diego are considering extreme measures, including a possible partial closure of La Jolla Cove, following an incident where a teenager was filmed repeatedly kicking a sea lion. The incident has intensified concerns about the city's ability to protect its wildlife amidst a surge in tourism.
California Coastal Commission members raised the prospect of shuttering parts of the cove during a recent meeting after video of the assault on the sea lion by 18-year-old Tyler Muehl went viral, sparking widespread outrage. Commissioners voiced embarrassment and frustration with what they perceive as the city's inadequate efforts to safeguard the marine mammals.
Muehl pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday to violating the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Court documents state he admitted to kicking the sea lion four times. The act carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a $100,000 fine.
During the commission meeting, Commissioner Matt O’Malley stated, "I’m, quite honestly, just embarrassed to be a city of San Diego resident right now. Frankly, I’m sick and tired of the failure of the city to implement the previously proposed plan in a coordinated way." O’Malley suggested that an increased park ranger presence and a partial closure of the cove are necessary, adding, "I’m at the point where I believe a partial closure is the only way to deal with this issue until the city gets their program implementation figured out."
Commissioner Jose Preciado echoed the sentiment, suggesting the cove "needs some sort of reboot in the sense that maybe preserving the environment completely… while everyone gets policies and practices squared away." Commission vice chair Caryl Hart described the situation as "completely out of control" and questioned how the natural resources could be protected.
La Jolla Cove, recognized as TripAdvisor's No. 1 beach in the U.S. this year, is a popular destination known for its rocky cliffs and clear waters. However, the influx of tourists has led to increased human-wildlife conflict. Officials note that visitors often approach sea lions too closely, leading to disturbances that can cause mother sea lions to abandon their pups. This year, approximately 40% of sea lion pups born at the cove have died, a statistic linked to human interaction.
The office of San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria has not committed to or entertained the idea of a seasonal or year-round closure. A spokesperson stated that the city is "constantly evaluating what measures we can use" to balance coastal access with preventing incidents.
La Jolla Cove is part of a protected marine reserve, and while the city advises against getting too close to wildlife, the popularity of the area continues to present challenges for conservation efforts.