Innovative Approach to Coastal Condition Indicators

The Pacific Estuarine Ecosystem Indicator Research (PEEIR) group has developed a new generation of indicators to evaluate the condition of California's estuaries. We have also devised practical methods for their integration and application. An essential feature of the PEEIR approach has been to integrate a range of measurements within a suite of resident aquatic species. This approach was developed and tested in California's salt marshes, but it can be applied to other habitat types and geographic regions. These indicators are primarily applicable for management issues related to contaminant exposure, nutrient enrichment, and microbial contamination and are a useful complement to existing techniques in ecological risk assessment.

PEEIR Concept and Implementation

To learn more about the integrated PEEIR Approach and how it can be implemented see the Executive Summary

PEEIR Resident Species Indicators

Click below these images to learn about the integrated indicators developed for the selected salt marsh species

Indicator Interpretation and Policy

Click on these brochures to learn how selected PEEIR findings are interpreted and could influence policy and management

Other PEEIR Accomplishments

  • In Progress

A research partnership between University of California, Davis, Bodega Marine Laboratory
and University of California, Santa Barbara
Funded by U.S. EPA Science To Achieve Results (STAR) EAGLE Program Grant No. R82867601