Monitoring & Research

Science and monitoring conducted by the Morro Bay National Estuary Program staff and volunteers helps determine how different human and natural factors affect the health of Morro Bay. Our monitoring effort has two primary goals: to track long-term trends and to determine the effectiveness of specific conservation projects. High quality data is critically important in prioritizing future projects, evaluating the effectiveness of existing projects, and assessing long-term changes in health.

The Estuary Program’s monitoring effort includes year-round and seasonal monitoring and provides valuable information to local non-profits; state, federal and local agencies; and private citizens to support our mutual goal to protect and preserve this unique area.

Our monitoring efforts would not be possible without the dedicated group of volunteers who help us every month. Click here to learn how to volunteer to track the health of our estuary.

[The Estuary Program’s] eelgrass dataset spans a decade and is one of the most comprehensive within Central and Southern California.

Bryant Chesney
Biologist, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

PROJECT EXAMPLES