Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary’s research program is focused on scientific research, monitoring, and characterization to enhance the understanding of ecosystem processes. Research is used to inform an ecosystem-based management approach—managing natural resources in a way that considers the entire ecosystem, including all plants, animals, and their environment, rather than focusing on just one part.
Research and Monitoring
Learn more about sanctuary research priorities, including climate change, marine debris, deep-sea corals, black abalone, and interactive status and trend reporting.
Characterization
Learn more about site characterization projects to further our understanding of sanctuary habitats, including iconic kelp forests, the sanctuary soundscape, and Davidson Seamount.
Science Needs Assessment
The Science Needs Assessment is an evaluation of science and information requirements of the sanctuary, guided by condition report findings and sanctuary management issues.
Science Partnerships
View a map of regional marine research institutions and other partners, and a list of science seminars around Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Research Activity Panel
The Research Activity Panel, a working group of the Sanctuary Advisory Council, reviews research issues to provide scientific advice to the council and sanctuary staff.
Field Operations
Sanctuary staff use a range of platforms to advance our mission of protecting natural and cultural resources through research and education.
Science Publications
Explore publications and resources that describe organisms and habitats of the sanctuary.