San Diego announced Tuesday the Children’s Pool in La Jolla will remain open as harbor seal pupping season begins because of the continuing legal dispute.
The City Council voted in 2014 to close the pool from Dec. 15 to May 15, but a court decision in Orange County keeps it open. The city has appealed the decision.
While the pool will be open, a rope line will serve as a reminder to keep a safe distance from any seals on the beach.
The Children’s Pool was deeded to the city in 1931, but the seals moved into the area in the 1990s. The ban during pupping season was intended to stop people from harassing the marine mammals.
Swimming is still officially permitted in the pool, but the seals have made it unsanitary.
City park rangers and lifeguards will continue to monitor the pool while the area is open to keep the public and wildlife safe. Harassing or disturbing the seals at any time is a violation of federal and local laws.