SLOSEA Initiatives

Six SLOSEA science initiatives together provide the data for improved understanding of the Morro Bay ecosystem. They are joined by an umbrella initiative, Science and Management Linkages, to form a cohesive framework for ecosystem-based-management in the Morro Bay region.

Invasive Species Fragile Habitats

Water Quality Science & Management Linkages Sustainable Fisheries

Climate Change Marine Economy

Solid science contributing to informed policy decisions...

SLOSEA's data collection efforts from 2006 through 2009 have included: Establishing a network of monitoring stations capturing real-time water quality, meteorological and current data in the Morro Bay estuary. Performing detailed bathymetric surveys, collecting and compiling data as a basis for physical modeling. Developing a hydrodynamic model to simulate tidal and current effects on the movement of land-based pollution throughout the bay. Evaluating data on critical habitat areas such as eel grass beds in the estuary and rocky intertidal areas along the coast. Screening key marine species such as shellfish and finfish for potential pollution effects. Documenting the shift in Morro Bay from a native mussel dominated community to a bryozoan (invasive) dominated community. Completing a three-year study with surveys and analysis of baseline ecosystem-dependent business activity in Morro Bay. Compiling historical fishing data and collecting new data through the California Collaborative Fisheries Research Program. Data collection is ongoing in 2010.