A new program to collect data on swaths of Marin’s protected coastal waters will soon have volunteers scoping for unpermitted fishing and other human activity. 

Marin MPA Watch, billed as a broad effort to promote stewardship, educate the public and provide data for scientists to help evaluate the success of protected areas, is part of a statewide program.

Eight other watch groups are currently operating in California, including in Malibu, Los Angeles and Monterey.

In…