A survey of the marine environment near the city of Santa Cruz ocean outfall

The California Department of Fish and Game and the State Water Resources Control Board (through Regional Board #3, Central Coast) entered into an agreement whereby Department biologist-divers conducted a subtidal ecological investigation of the marine environment in thevicinity of the City of Santa Cruz ocean outfall. The objective of the study was to provide the Regional Water Quality Control Board with data to assist them in evaluating the effects of the discharge on the marine environment.The determinations made by biologist-divers included: (i) the number and diversity of the plant and animal life; (ii) substrate characteristics; and (iii) physical parameters, including water temperature and clarity. Additionally, benthic samples were obtained both by the diversand by a Ponar grab at each station.The State Water Resources Control Board reimbursed the Department for part of the expenses incurred during this study.