Coast Guard July 17, 2020 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

The Coast Guard is establishing Regulated Navigation Areas (RNAs) at the harbor bar entrances to Crescent City Harbor, Humboldt Bay, Noyo River, and Morro Bay. This regulation creates additional safety requirements for recreational and small commercial vessels operating in these areas during periods of hazardous conditions, such as high wind or breaking surf, and establishes clear procedures for restricting and closing these harbor bar entrances in the event of unsafe conditions. This regulation is necessary to enhance mariner and vessel safety when bar conditions exceed certain parameters, typically when breaking seas are projected to be 20-foot or greater. This rulemaking prohibits vessels from entering these areas during unsafe conditions unless authorized by the local Captain of the Port or a designated representative.