LA JOLLA, Calif. -- A home video is reigniting the debate between those who want to use the beach and those who want to protect the harbor seals at the Children's Pool in La Jolla, 10News reported.

The area is approved for joint use by humans and animals. However, seal supporters have literally been drawing a line in the sand they hope the public won't cross since the pupping season has just begun and lasts until April.

Anthony Parello clashed with seal supporters last weekend when he organized a small barbeque at the Children's Pool.

The party brought out angry protesters who became more upset when they videotaped someone swimming with the seals.

"As he swims in, he swims up to a seal that's lying on the beach and doesn't want to move off the beach. He barks at the seal from about six feet away until the seal finally moves off the beach," said James Hudnall, coordinator of the Save Our Seals Coalition.

Hudnall recorded home video of the man swimming with the seals and said he has seen the man bothering the seals before. While it is not illegal for people to be in the area, federal law prohibits anyone from harassing wildlife and that includes harbor seals.

There are mixed feelings from the public.

"I like the seals here and they are not bothering anyone. I don't know what the big deal is," a La Jolla resident said.

"It's not their beach, it's a public beach," another resident told 10News.

The San Diego City Council has been moving forward with plans to clean up fecal matter contamination by dredging the sand. The issue is now tied up in court.

Until resolved, animal rights groups said they will stand guard to protect the seals.

Those who are pushing for joint use of the beach emphasize they are not against the seals, they simply want the Children's Pool to be returned to its original intended use.