The protections came too late of Pellines. Photo: Courtesy Ramon Navarro
Chile’s congress voted in favor of a law that would protect coastal zones where surfing and other wave-riding sports are practiced. The legislation would require the state to identify, register, and protect surf spots.
As part of the process, Chilean officials would catalog the bathymetry of the ocean floor, prevailing currents, sedimentation processes, wind patterns, and how the wave breaks to determine if protection is needed.
The law would prohibit coastal structures in these zones that interfere with the waves, aiming to reduce the impact of tourism, real estate development, and ports. It now goes to the president’s desk for approval.
Senator José Miguel Durana stressed that the goal is not to slow down the economic development of the country, and that the language makes the local municipalities stakeholders in the wave registration process.
“We are talking about a living and dynamic heritage that must be safeguarded with a long-term vision,” said Durana.
Big wave surfing legend Ramon Navarro heralded the update as “huge news for the future of Chilean surfing.”
“It’s going to make a big difference,” said Navarro. “All the communities need to work together to figure out how the law is actually going to work, to implement it in every region, and how to make the list of waves that will be protected. There is a lot of work ahead until we can say our waves are completely safe.”
The Chilean Surfing Federation also celebrated the news, calling it a “historic day” and highlighting that especially as an Olympic sport, it’s within the country’s interest to protect the places where surfing flourishes.
“Now a new stage begins: bringing together coastal communities, schools, and clubs to gather information, share experiences and ensure that protection is real and effective,” the federation said.
While many celebrated the news, it came too late for the left point break of Pellines. Construction crews recently began a USD $4.5 million project, placing rocks in the lineup to create two jetties that aim to make the beach safer for fishermen. However, Navarro says that similar projects that disrupted sand flow in Chile made conditions worse for fishermen and ruined surf spots.
Navarro said that Pellines might become a “sacrifice” – an example for the politicians of what happens when you alter a world-class surf spot.
