1. ‘Children’s Pool’ Debate

2. 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

3. 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

4. In 1992, the City of San Diego began to hear complaints from animal-rights groups regarding…
History

5. Seals

6. 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.

7. Animal rights groups wanted the beach blocked off to protect the seals from increasing human tomfoolery.
… like selfies…

8. Others claimed that the beach was established for human use, and humans should be allowed to use it as they see fit.

9. 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.

10. 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.