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The California Sea Urchin Commission was created in 2004 following an overwhelming vote of all participants in the fishery, both divers and handlers. Because sea urchin processors voted to leave the Commission in 2009, it now represents the interests of California's nearly 300 licensed divers.

The Commission operates under state law to ensure a sustainable sea urchin resource and a reliable supply of quality seafood product for domestic consumption and export. The Commission seeks to support strong local coastal communities, fair levels of income for fishermen engaged in sea urchin commercial fishing, and historically significant cultural and community resources within California's coastal areas.

The Sea Urchin Commission is directed by a Commission which includes five elected commissioners and one appointed public member. The Commission also includes several non-voting members representing government entities which are significant to the sea urchin fishery and one processor representative.

Commission activities are funded by an assessment on sea urchin harvested and processed in California and which is paid by divers and remitted by processors. The Commission may undertake various industry initiatives, including a diver-based urchin assessment program; independent scientific research; developing and advocating for management alternatives; public information and educational programs; develop new or expand existing markets; establishment of quality improvement standards; projects to promote California uni; and advocate for the urchin fishery.

Non-Voting Commissioners

Ms. Kristine Barsky
CA Department of Fish & Game
Marine Region
805-985-3114

Ms. Carrie Culver, Ph.D.
Sea Grant Extension Program
University of California Cooperative Extension
805-645-1469