Transcript *Children*s Pool* Debate

‘Children’s Pool’ Debate

In 1931, the local government in San
Diego paid for a sea-wall to be built,
protecting a small amount of coastline
from strong waves.
History

For years, the small beach served as an
area for children or beginning swimmers
to enjoy the coastline while avoiding
waves, thus giving it the name “Children’s
Pool.”
History

In 1992, the City of San Diego began to
hear complaints from animal-rights
groups regarding…
History
Seals

The sea-wall provided a haven for wild
seals, giving them shelter on the rocks
and beach, protection from predators, and
access to food in the calm waters of the
pool.

Animal rights groups wanted the beach
blocked off to protect the seals from
increasing human tomfoolery.
… like selfies…

Others claimed
that the beach
was established
for human use,
and humans
should be
allowed to use it
as they see fit.

Presently, no one uses the beach for
swimming, and access to the sand is
blocked off. San Diego County Park
Rangers will give citations to anyone who
gets “too close” to the seals.
This is about as close as
you can legally get.

What’s your opinion?
Should humans be allowed to use the
beach as they please?
Or should we respect the habitat of the
seals, even if it is artificial?
Research the debate, and prepare to
defend your reasoning.