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Scientists
from Federal, State, and local government agencies, universities, and private
 Multi-Agency Rocky Intertidal Network (MARINe) and volunteer organizations have formed a Multi-Agency Rocky Intertidal Network (MARINe) in order to monitor important shoreline resources. This network includes several sites located from San Luis Obispo to San Diego on the mainland and offshore islands. The network is currently being supported by 19 different organizations. Who
we are:
One
of MARINe's goals is to develop a data management system so that everyone
has easy access to the data and so that more comprehensive evaluations can
be made.
Key rocky intertidal habitats and
species are sampled every fall and spring using a variety of methods. Mussels,
sea stars, abalone, sea grass, acorn and goose neck barnacles, and several
algal communities such as Silvetia and Endocladia are among the key species
and habitat types studied.
The
sites are spaced about every 10-15 miles along the mainland, and along key intertidal
benches on the islands, providing excellent geographic coverage. The information
generated by monitoring is used by the various agencies and organizations to
assess environmental effects, manage natural resources, and
aid coastal planning efforts. Continuous monitoring provides resource managers with early warnings of abnormal conditions, allowing for the possibility of reduction of environmental effects.
Long-term
monitoring of shoreline resources provides the data needed for knowledge-based
decision making and strong resource management programs. MARINe evolved from
the natural process of working together, combining resources, and sharing a
common goal. Establishment of this network allows for a better understanding
of the dynamics of rocky intertidal communities in the Southern California Bight.
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