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Rock Lopping

Harding. Shag. Arch. Blossom. The names of these underwater rocks scattered across San Francisco Bay might suggest a certain nautical charm, but the possibility of one of them piercing the hull of an out-of control tanker certainly doesn't. That's why U.S. Representative George Miller (D-Martinez) has introduced legislation to shear the tops off the rocks, which are dangerously close to the Bay's busiest shipping channels.

Because some of the rocks are less than 35 feet below the surface at low tide, they present a hazard to modern supertankers, which draw up to 50 feet and hold 18 million gallons of oil. Miller's bill, based on recommendations made by the Harbor Safety Committee, authorizes the Army Corps to conduct feasibility studies. Ultimately, some or all of the rocks could be altered, giving a minimum of 55 feet of clearance.

The Corps will consider various methods of removing the tops, including using dynamite or dredging equipment to scrape them off. Cal Fish & Game's Bob Tasto says that the rocks provide habitat for several species, including ling cod, rockfish, and anchovies. They are also popular spots for recreational fishing, because the rocks provide fairly shallow water for catching stripers. Because of the devastating damage from a large oil spill, the bill has drawn cautious support from environmentalists, including the Center for Marine Conservation and Save the Bay. The Pacific Coast Federation of Fisherman's Associations also favors it. The Federation's Zeke Grader notes that the legislation includes provisions for replacing damaged fish habitat, which he says would be a relatively easy task. But United Anglers of California's John Beuttler says that even if the rocks are lowered, there's still a "plethora of places where these ships can run aground." He thinks alternatives, like requiring tractor tugs to guide all incoming tankers through the Bay, might be less disruptive. "Anytime you have to destroy the environment to protect it, maybe you're not looking at things the right way."

Contact: Miller's Office (510)602-1880 or United Anglers (510)525-3474

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