The Minerals Management Service supports an extensive program of scientific studies. As part of this national program, the Pacific OCS Region manages a variety of scientific studies to increase our understanding of the marine and coastal environment and the potential effects of oil and gas activities on this environment in California. About $1 to $2 million is spent annually in the Pacific Region to fund research in physical oceanography, biology, ecology, and socioeconomics. A list of studies currently underway as well those beginning this year are listed under Current Environmental Studies and at Study Profiles. Studies proposed for funding in future fiscal years are described in the Environmental Studies Development Plan, (includes previous Studies Development Plans for additional reference: 2006-2008, 2007-2009, 2008-2010, and 2009-2011.) Study priorities may change from those indicated in a plan due to MMS work priorities and information needs.

Information on a wide variety of subjects resulting from this national studies program can be found in the Environmental Studies Program Information System (ESPIS). This system contains a searchable database of study results covering a wide range of topics in physical, biological, and social sciences set in geographical locations from the Arctic Ocean to the tropics.

• Highlights and Accomplishments of the Pacific OCS Region Environmental Studies Program
   
• Submarine Oil Seep Study
• MARINe  Scientists from Federal, State, and local government agencies, universities, and private and volunteer organizations have formed a Multi-Agency Rocky Intertidal Network (MARINe) to monitor important shoreline resources.
   
• Decommissioning Environmental Studies Workshop Proceedings