Northern California’s red abalone diving ban, implemented in 2018 following an 80% population decline, is extended until at least 2036. The collapse was caused by red tide, a marine heat wave, and sea urchins destroying kelp. Due to the lack of population recovery, poaching issues, and over $550,000 in lost survey revenue, the CDFW continues the closure. All legal California abalone is currently farmed, and a decade-long recovery is anticipated before any potential reopening.