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Guy R Cochrane, PhD

I have a background in marine geophysics which I employ for benthic habitat mapping in the Eastern Pacific Ocean

Professional Experience

  • Seafloor Mapping

  • Benthic Habitat Mapping

  • Coastal and Marine Ecological Classification Standard working group (CMECS)

  • Expanding Pacific Research and Exploration of Submerged Systems (EXPRESS)

  • Coastal and Marine Geology Data Management Leadership Team

Education and Certifications

  • BS Geology and Oceanography Humboldt State University

  • MS Geo-Oceanography University of Washington

  • PhD Earth Sciences University of California, Santa Cruz

Affiliations and Memberships*

  • GeoHab Board of Directors (geohab.org)

Science and Products

A white ship with a blue bottom travels toward an island. The sky is orange, blue, and grey as the sun rises.

Exploring Biodiversity of the Deep Hawaiian Pacific Ocean with Seafloor Mapping and eDNA Technologies

Working in partnership with BOEM and the NOAA Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute, scientists from the USGS will embark on a 10-day voyage to the outer limits of the U.S. Pacific waters south of Hawai’i to conduct seafloor mapping and autonomous environmental DNA sampling in order to investigate and characterize the geology and biology of the Hawaiian abyssal plain.
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Land Management Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
Exploring Biodiversity of the Deep Hawaiian Pacific Ocean with Seafloor Mapping and eDNA Technologies

Exploring Biodiversity of the Deep Hawaiian Pacific Ocean with Seafloor Mapping and eDNA Technologies

Working in partnership with BOEM and the NOAA Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute, scientists from the USGS will embark on a 10-day voyage to the outer limits of the U.S. Pacific waters south of Hawai’i to conduct seafloor mapping and autonomous environmental DNA sampling in order to investigate and characterize the geology and biology of the Hawaiian abyssal plain.
Learn More
Colored shaded-relief bathymetry map of Monterey Canyon and Vicinity, California

Marine Geomorphology, Evolution, and Habitats

Seafloor resource managers and modelers need seafloor maps that can be combined in GIS, modeling, and statistical analysis environments and related successfully to biologic and oceanographic data. The Marine Geomorphology, Evolution, and Habitats Project encompasses mapping activities and the development of new mapping systems and methodologies. The emphasis is on the role of geologic processes in...
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
Marine Geomorphology, Evolution, and Habitats

Marine Geomorphology, Evolution, and Habitats

Seafloor resource managers and modelers need seafloor maps that can be combined in GIS, modeling, and statistical analysis environments and related successfully to biologic and oceanographic data. The Marine Geomorphology, Evolution, and Habitats Project encompasses mapping activities and the development of new mapping systems and methodologies. The emphasis is on the role of geologic processes in...
Learn More
Fish on seafloor, Offshore Northern California

California Seafloor Mapping Program

The California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP) is a cooperative program to create a comprehensive coastal and marine geologic and habitat base map series for all of California's State waters.
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Big Sur Landslides, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
California Seafloor Mapping Program

California Seafloor Mapping Program

The California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP) is a cooperative program to create a comprehensive coastal and marine geologic and habitat base map series for all of California's State waters.
Learn More
People wearing safety gear lean over the gunwale of a ship to help guide a large metal frame holding instruments.

California Seafloor Mapping Program data collection

Here we describe the data collection methods and techniques of the California Seaflor Mapping Program: mapping, video and photography ground-truthing, and seismic profiling data collection.
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
California Seafloor Mapping Program data collection

California Seafloor Mapping Program data collection

Here we describe the data collection methods and techniques of the California Seaflor Mapping Program: mapping, video and photography ground-truthing, and seismic profiling data collection.
Learn More
Seafloor image showing depth with lots of text of explanation.

California Seafloor Mapping Program map-set production

USGS and the California Ocean Protection Council (COPC) are supporting development of peer-reviewed map sets for California’s mainland State Waters.
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
California Seafloor Mapping Program map-set production

California Seafloor Mapping Program map-set production

USGS and the California Ocean Protection Council (COPC) are supporting development of peer-reviewed map sets for California’s mainland State Waters.
Learn More
3-D angular view of a bay inlet with a bridge spanning the inlet, the floor of the bay is shown as if the water is drained out.

California Seafloor Mapping Program applications

California Seafloor Mapping Program data and map publications have and will be used for a large range of applications in coastal zone management and research.
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
California Seafloor Mapping Program applications

California Seafloor Mapping Program applications

California Seafloor Mapping Program data and map publications have and will be used for a large range of applications in coastal zone management and research.
Learn More
Filter Total Items: 27

Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, seismic reflection, and benthic habitat data offshore of Arcata, California Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, seismic reflection, and benthic habitat data offshore of Arcata, California

Survey data collected for this data release were used to create maps of surficial geology and benthic habitat as part of the USGS California Seafloor Mapping Program, a collaboration with California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Funding was provided by the California Ocean Protection Council. These data are intended...
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, seismic reflection, and benthic habitat data offshore of Eureka, California Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, seismic reflection, and benthic habitat data offshore of Eureka, California

Survey data collected for this data release were used to create maps of surficial geology and benthic habitat as part of the USGS California Seafloor Mapping Program, a collaboration with California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Funding was provided by the California Ocean Protection Council.These data are intended...
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, and benthic habitat offshore of Cape Mendocino, California Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, and benthic habitat offshore of Cape Mendocino, California

Survey data collected for this data release were used to create maps of surficial geology and benthic habitat as part of the USGS California Seafloor Mapping Program, a collaboration with California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Funding was provided by the California Ocean Protection Council. These data are intended...
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, and benthic habitat offshore of the Eel River, California Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, and benthic habitat offshore of the Eel River, California

Survey data collected for this data release were used to create maps of surficial geology and benthic habitat as part of the USGS California Seafloor Mapping Program, a collaboration with California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Funding was provided by the California Ocean Protection Council.These data are intended...
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Multibeam echo sounder, video observation, and derived benthic habitat data offshore of Tacoma, Washington Multibeam echo sounder, video observation, and derived benthic habitat data offshore of Tacoma, Washington

In 2010, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 10, initiated the Puget Sound Scientific Studies and Technical Investigations Assistance Program, which was designed to support research for implementing the Puget Sound Action Agenda. The Action Agenda was created because Puget Sound was designated as one of 28 estuaries of National Significance under section 320 of the Clean...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Bathymetry and topography, video observation, and derived benthic habitat data offshore of Burien, Washington Bathymetry and topography, video observation, and derived benthic habitat data offshore of Burien, Washington

In 2010, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 10, initiated the Puget Sound Scientific Studies and Technical Investigations Assistance Program, which was designed to support research for implementing the Puget Sound Action Agenda. The Action Agenda was created because Puget Sound was designated as one of 28 estuaries of National Significance under section 320 of the Clean...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

California State Waters Map Series: Offshore of Refugio Beach, California California State Waters Map Series: Offshore of Refugio Beach, California

In 2007, the California Ocean Protection Council initiated the California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP), designed to create a comprehensive seafloor map of high-resolution bathymetry, marine benthic habitats, and geology within California’s State Waters. The CSMP approach is to create highly detailed seafloor maps through collection, integration, interpretation, and visualization of...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

California State Waters Map Series — Offshore of San Gregorio, California California State Waters Map Series — Offshore of San Gregorio, California

In 2007, the California Ocean Protection Council initiated the California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP), designed to create a comprehensive seafloor map of high-resolution bathymetry, marine benthic habitats, and geology within the 3-nautical-mile limit of California's State Waters. The CSMP approach is to create highly detailed seafloor maps through collection, integration...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

California State Waters Map Series: Offshore of Coal Oil Point, California California State Waters Map Series: Offshore of Coal Oil Point, California

In 2007, the California Ocean Protection Council initiated the California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP), designed to create a comprehensive seafloor map of high-resolution bathymetry, marine benthic habitats, and geology within the 3-nautical-mile limit of California’s State Waters. The CSMP approach is to create highly detailed seafloor maps through collection, integration...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

California State Waters Map Series: offshore of Santa Barbara, California California State Waters Map Series: offshore of Santa Barbara, California

In 2007, the California Ocean Protection Council initiated the California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP), designed to create a comprehensive seafloor map of high-resolution bathymetry, marine benthic habitats, and geology within the 3-nautical-mile limit of California’s State Waters. The CSMP approach is to create highly detailed seafloor maps through collection, integration...
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

California State Waters Map Series: Offshore of Carpinteria, California California State Waters Map Series: Offshore of Carpinteria, California

In 2007, the California Ocean Protection Council initiated the California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP), designed to create a comprehensive seafloor map of high-resolution bathymetry, marine benthic habitats, and geology within the 3-nautical-mile limit of California’s State Waters. The CSMP approach is to create highly detailed seafloor maps through collection, integration...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Marine benthic habitat mapping of the West Arm, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska Marine benthic habitat mapping of the West Arm, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska

Seafloor geology and potential benthic habitats were mapped in West Arm, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska, using multibeam sonar, groundtruthed observations, and geological interpretations. The West Arm of Glacier Bay is a recently deglaciated fjord system under the influence of glacial and paraglacial marine processes. High glacially derived sediment and meltwater fluxes...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
A group of smiling men and women wearing lifejackets pose on the bow of a ship at sea with a bridge far off in the distance.
Cal DIG I science crew
Cal DIG I science crew
A group of smiling men and women wearing lifejackets pose on the bow of a ship at sea with a bridge far off in the distance.

Cal DIG I science crew

Cal DIG I science crew

The USGS California Deepwater Investigations and Groundtruthing, or Cal DIG, science crew aboard research vessel Bold Horizon on San Francisco Bay.

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
A group of smiling men and women wearing lifejackets pose on the bow of a ship at sea with a bridge far off in the distance.

Cal DIG I science crew

Cal DIG I science crew

The USGS California Deepwater Investigations and Groundtruthing, or Cal DIG, science crew aboard research vessel Bold Horizon on San Francisco Bay.

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Anemones attached to a rocky outcrop on the seafloor.
Pom-pom anemone on the Pacific Ocean floor off California
Pom-pom anemone on the Pacific Ocean floor off California
Anemones attached to a rocky outcrop on the seafloor.

Pom-pom anemone on the Pacific Ocean floor off California

Pom-pom anemone on the Pacific Ocean floor off California

These “pom-pom” anemones (Liponema sp.) have attached to the rock in a place where there are probably very good currents, which bring small floating particles of food to them. Water depth is 1041 m (3415 ft).

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Anemones attached to a rocky outcrop on the seafloor.

Pom-pom anemone on the Pacific Ocean floor off California

Pom-pom anemone on the Pacific Ocean floor off California

These “pom-pom” anemones (Liponema sp.) have attached to the rock in a place where there are probably very good currents, which bring small floating particles of food to them. Water depth is 1041 m (3415 ft).

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Critters on the bottom of the ocean, a sea star, skate, and rockfish.
Sea life offshore of Morro Bay, California
Sea life offshore of Morro Bay, California
Critters on the bottom of the ocean, a sea star, skate, and rockfish.

Sea life offshore of Morro Bay, California

Sea life offshore of Morro Bay, California

A small juvenile skate (left) and a large rockfish (right) hang out on the murky, silty seafloor with sea stars. Water depth: 856 m (2808 ft).

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
Critters on the bottom of the ocean, a sea star, skate, and rockfish.

Sea life offshore of Morro Bay, California

Sea life offshore of Morro Bay, California

A small juvenile skate (left) and a large rockfish (right) hang out on the murky, silty seafloor with sea stars. Water depth: 856 m (2808 ft).

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
Two men stand on the deck of a ship, and one is giving hand signals while they retrieve a large instrument from the ocean.
Retrieving the MiniROV
Retrieving the MiniROV
Two men stand on the deck of a ship, and one is giving hand signals while they retrieve a large instrument from the ocean.

Retrieving the MiniROV

Retrieving the MiniROV

Retrieving the MBARI (Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute) MiniROV from the Pacific Ocean offshore of California, on research vessel (R/V) Bold Horizon.

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
Two men stand on the deck of a ship, and one is giving hand signals while they retrieve a large instrument from the ocean.

Retrieving the MiniROV

Retrieving the MiniROV

Retrieving the MBARI (Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute) MiniROV from the Pacific Ocean offshore of California, on research vessel (R/V) Bold Horizon.

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
Filter Total Items: 50

California State Waters Map Series—Benthic habitat characterization in the region offshore Humboldt Bay, California California State Waters Map Series—Benthic habitat characterization in the region offshore Humboldt Bay, California

Coastal and Marine Ecological Classification Standard (CMECS) geoform, substrate, and biotic component geographic information system (GIS) products were developed for the California State Waters of northern California in the region offshore of Humboldt Bay. The study was motivated by interest in development of offshore wind-energy capacity and infrastructure in Federal waters offshore...
Authors
Guy R. Cochrane
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Pockmarks offshore Big Sur, California provide evidence for recurrent, regional, and unconfined sediment gravity flows Pockmarks offshore Big Sur, California provide evidence for recurrent, regional, and unconfined sediment gravity flows

Recent surface ship multibeam surveys of the Sur Pockmark Field, offshore Central California, reveal >5,000 pockmarks in an area that is slated to host a wind farm, between 500- and 1,500-m water depth. Extensive fieldwork was conducted to characterize the seafloor environment and its recent geologic history, including visual observations with remotely operated vehicles, sediment core...
Authors
E. Lundsten, Charles K. Paull, R. Gwiazda, S. Dobbs, D.W. Caress, Linda A. Kuhnz, M. Walton, N. Nieminski, Mary McGann, Thomas Lorenson, Guy R. Cochrane, Jason A. Addison
By
Ecosystems Land Change Science Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

California State waters map series—Benthic habitat characterization in the region offshore of Morro Bay, California California State waters map series—Benthic habitat characterization in the region offshore of Morro Bay, California

Coastal and Marine Ecological Classification Standard geoform, substrate, and biotic component geographic information system products were developed for the California State waters of south-central California in the region offshore of Morro Bay. The study was motivated by interest in development of offshore wind-energy capacity and infrastructure in Federal waters offshore. The Bureau of...
Authors
Guy R. Cochrane, Rikk Kvitek, Aaron Cole, Meghan Sherrier, Alia Roca-Lezra, Sean Hallahan, Peter Dartnell
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Multi-factor biotopes as a method for detailed site characterization in diverse benthic megafaunal communities and habitats in deep-water off Morro Bay, California Multi-factor biotopes as a method for detailed site characterization in diverse benthic megafaunal communities and habitats in deep-water off Morro Bay, California

Here we describe the methods and results for biological characterization of the benthos on a previously unexplored area of central California, USA seafloor. We conducted 40 remotely operated vehicle dives from 371 to 1173 m water depth. Seafloor habitats and megafauna (fish and invertebrates) were documented from 46.8 km of seafloor video footage. Our expanded development and analysis of...
Authors
Linda A. Kuhnz, Lisa Gilbane, Guy R. Cochrane, Charles K. Paull
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

California Deepwater Investigations and Groundtruthing (Cal DIG) I, volume 3 — Benthic habitat characterization offshore Morro Bay, California California Deepwater Investigations and Groundtruthing (Cal DIG) I, volume 3 — Benthic habitat characterization offshore Morro Bay, California

Coastal and Marine Ecological Classification Standard (CMECS) geoform, substrate, and biotic component geographic information system (GIS) products were developed for the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (U.S. EEZ) of south-central California in the region of Santa Lucia Bank motivated by interest in development of offshore wind-energy capacity and infrastructure. The Bureau of Ocean Energy...
Authors
Guy R. Cochrane, Linda A. Kuhnz, Lisa Gilbane, Peter Dartnell, Maureen A. L. Walton, Charles K. Paull
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization

California deepwater investigations and groundtruthing (Cal DIG) I: Fault and shallow geohazard analysis offshore Morro Bay California deepwater investigations and groundtruthing (Cal DIG) I: Fault and shallow geohazard analysis offshore Morro Bay

The California Deepwater Investigations and Groundtruthing (Cal DIG) I project focuses on the potential seafloor hazards and impacts of alternative energy infrastructure in the outer continental shelf region offshore of south-central California. This is one of three reports covering a single study area located between Monterey and Point Conception, California in federal waters outside of...
Authors
Maureen A. L. Walton, Charlie K Paull, Guy R. Cochrane, Jason A. Addison, Roberto Gwiazda, Daniel J. Kennedy, Eve M. Lundsten, Antoinette Gabrielle Papesh
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Ecosystems Land Change Science Program, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Core Preparation and Analysis Laboratory and Sample Repositories, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
Sediment Flows Create Seafloor Pockmarks offshore of Central California

Sediment Flows Create Seafloor Pockmarks offshore of Central California

A recent study from researchers at Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Stanford University, and USGS debunks the longstanding theory that...

Read Article
Collaborative Federal Investigation Reveals Cause of Huntington Oil Spill

Collaborative Federal Investigation Reveals Cause of Huntington Oil Spill

A collaborative investigation involving multiple federal agencies, including the FBI, U.S. Attorneys' Office, U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), Bureau of Ocean...

Read Article
California Deepwater Investigations and Groundtruthing

California Deepwater Investigations and Groundtruthing

To advance national and state renewable energy goals, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), USGS, and the State of California are considering...

Read Article

Science and Products

A white ship with a blue bottom travels toward an island. The sky is orange, blue, and grey as the sun rises.

Exploring Biodiversity of the Deep Hawaiian Pacific Ocean with Seafloor Mapping and eDNA Technologies

Working in partnership with BOEM and the NOAA Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute, scientists from the USGS will embark on a 10-day voyage to the outer limits of the U.S. Pacific waters south of Hawai’i to conduct seafloor mapping and autonomous environmental DNA sampling in order to investigate and characterize the geology and biology of the Hawaiian abyssal plain.
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Land Management Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
Exploring Biodiversity of the Deep Hawaiian Pacific Ocean with Seafloor Mapping and eDNA Technologies

Exploring Biodiversity of the Deep Hawaiian Pacific Ocean with Seafloor Mapping and eDNA Technologies

Working in partnership with BOEM and the NOAA Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute, scientists from the USGS will embark on a 10-day voyage to the outer limits of the U.S. Pacific waters south of Hawai’i to conduct seafloor mapping and autonomous environmental DNA sampling in order to investigate and characterize the geology and biology of the Hawaiian abyssal plain.
Learn More
Colored shaded-relief bathymetry map of Monterey Canyon and Vicinity, California

Marine Geomorphology, Evolution, and Habitats

Seafloor resource managers and modelers need seafloor maps that can be combined in GIS, modeling, and statistical analysis environments and related successfully to biologic and oceanographic data. The Marine Geomorphology, Evolution, and Habitats Project encompasses mapping activities and the development of new mapping systems and methodologies. The emphasis is on the role of geologic processes in...
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
Marine Geomorphology, Evolution, and Habitats

Marine Geomorphology, Evolution, and Habitats

Seafloor resource managers and modelers need seafloor maps that can be combined in GIS, modeling, and statistical analysis environments and related successfully to biologic and oceanographic data. The Marine Geomorphology, Evolution, and Habitats Project encompasses mapping activities and the development of new mapping systems and methodologies. The emphasis is on the role of geologic processes in...
Learn More
Fish on seafloor, Offshore Northern California

California Seafloor Mapping Program

The California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP) is a cooperative program to create a comprehensive coastal and marine geologic and habitat base map series for all of California's State waters.
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Big Sur Landslides, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
California Seafloor Mapping Program

California Seafloor Mapping Program

The California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP) is a cooperative program to create a comprehensive coastal and marine geologic and habitat base map series for all of California's State waters.
Learn More
People wearing safety gear lean over the gunwale of a ship to help guide a large metal frame holding instruments.

California Seafloor Mapping Program data collection

Here we describe the data collection methods and techniques of the California Seaflor Mapping Program: mapping, video and photography ground-truthing, and seismic profiling data collection.
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
California Seafloor Mapping Program data collection

California Seafloor Mapping Program data collection

Here we describe the data collection methods and techniques of the California Seaflor Mapping Program: mapping, video and photography ground-truthing, and seismic profiling data collection.
Learn More
Seafloor image showing depth with lots of text of explanation.

California Seafloor Mapping Program map-set production

USGS and the California Ocean Protection Council (COPC) are supporting development of peer-reviewed map sets for California’s mainland State Waters.
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
California Seafloor Mapping Program map-set production

California Seafloor Mapping Program map-set production

USGS and the California Ocean Protection Council (COPC) are supporting development of peer-reviewed map sets for California’s mainland State Waters.
Learn More
3-D angular view of a bay inlet with a bridge spanning the inlet, the floor of the bay is shown as if the water is drained out.

California Seafloor Mapping Program applications

California Seafloor Mapping Program data and map publications have and will be used for a large range of applications in coastal zone management and research.
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
California Seafloor Mapping Program applications

California Seafloor Mapping Program applications

California Seafloor Mapping Program data and map publications have and will be used for a large range of applications in coastal zone management and research.
Learn More
Filter Total Items: 27

Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, seismic reflection, and benthic habitat data offshore of Arcata, California Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, seismic reflection, and benthic habitat data offshore of Arcata, California

Survey data collected for this data release were used to create maps of surficial geology and benthic habitat as part of the USGS California Seafloor Mapping Program, a collaboration with California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Funding was provided by the California Ocean Protection Council. These data are intended...
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, seismic reflection, and benthic habitat data offshore of Eureka, California Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, seismic reflection, and benthic habitat data offshore of Eureka, California

Survey data collected for this data release were used to create maps of surficial geology and benthic habitat as part of the USGS California Seafloor Mapping Program, a collaboration with California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Funding was provided by the California Ocean Protection Council.These data are intended...
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, and benthic habitat offshore of Cape Mendocino, California Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, and benthic habitat offshore of Cape Mendocino, California

Survey data collected for this data release were used to create maps of surficial geology and benthic habitat as part of the USGS California Seafloor Mapping Program, a collaboration with California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Funding was provided by the California Ocean Protection Council. These data are intended...
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, and benthic habitat offshore of the Eel River, California Bathymetry, backscatter intensity, and benthic habitat offshore of the Eel River, California

Survey data collected for this data release were used to create maps of surficial geology and benthic habitat as part of the USGS California Seafloor Mapping Program, a collaboration with California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Funding was provided by the California Ocean Protection Council.These data are intended...
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Multibeam echo sounder, video observation, and derived benthic habitat data offshore of Tacoma, Washington Multibeam echo sounder, video observation, and derived benthic habitat data offshore of Tacoma, Washington

In 2010, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 10, initiated the Puget Sound Scientific Studies and Technical Investigations Assistance Program, which was designed to support research for implementing the Puget Sound Action Agenda. The Action Agenda was created because Puget Sound was designated as one of 28 estuaries of National Significance under section 320 of the Clean...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Bathymetry and topography, video observation, and derived benthic habitat data offshore of Burien, Washington Bathymetry and topography, video observation, and derived benthic habitat data offshore of Burien, Washington

In 2010, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 10, initiated the Puget Sound Scientific Studies and Technical Investigations Assistance Program, which was designed to support research for implementing the Puget Sound Action Agenda. The Action Agenda was created because Puget Sound was designated as one of 28 estuaries of National Significance under section 320 of the Clean...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

California State Waters Map Series: Offshore of Refugio Beach, California California State Waters Map Series: Offshore of Refugio Beach, California

In 2007, the California Ocean Protection Council initiated the California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP), designed to create a comprehensive seafloor map of high-resolution bathymetry, marine benthic habitats, and geology within California’s State Waters. The CSMP approach is to create highly detailed seafloor maps through collection, integration, interpretation, and visualization of...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

California State Waters Map Series — Offshore of San Gregorio, California California State Waters Map Series — Offshore of San Gregorio, California

In 2007, the California Ocean Protection Council initiated the California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP), designed to create a comprehensive seafloor map of high-resolution bathymetry, marine benthic habitats, and geology within the 3-nautical-mile limit of California's State Waters. The CSMP approach is to create highly detailed seafloor maps through collection, integration...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

California State Waters Map Series: Offshore of Coal Oil Point, California California State Waters Map Series: Offshore of Coal Oil Point, California

In 2007, the California Ocean Protection Council initiated the California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP), designed to create a comprehensive seafloor map of high-resolution bathymetry, marine benthic habitats, and geology within the 3-nautical-mile limit of California’s State Waters. The CSMP approach is to create highly detailed seafloor maps through collection, integration...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

California State Waters Map Series: offshore of Santa Barbara, California California State Waters Map Series: offshore of Santa Barbara, California

In 2007, the California Ocean Protection Council initiated the California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP), designed to create a comprehensive seafloor map of high-resolution bathymetry, marine benthic habitats, and geology within the 3-nautical-mile limit of California’s State Waters. The CSMP approach is to create highly detailed seafloor maps through collection, integration...
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

California State Waters Map Series: Offshore of Carpinteria, California California State Waters Map Series: Offshore of Carpinteria, California

In 2007, the California Ocean Protection Council initiated the California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP), designed to create a comprehensive seafloor map of high-resolution bathymetry, marine benthic habitats, and geology within the 3-nautical-mile limit of California’s State Waters. The CSMP approach is to create highly detailed seafloor maps through collection, integration...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Marine benthic habitat mapping of the West Arm, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska Marine benthic habitat mapping of the West Arm, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska

Seafloor geology and potential benthic habitats were mapped in West Arm, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska, using multibeam sonar, groundtruthed observations, and geological interpretations. The West Arm of Glacier Bay is a recently deglaciated fjord system under the influence of glacial and paraglacial marine processes. High glacially derived sediment and meltwater fluxes...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
A group of smiling men and women wearing lifejackets pose on the bow of a ship at sea with a bridge far off in the distance.
Cal DIG I science crew
Cal DIG I science crew
A group of smiling men and women wearing lifejackets pose on the bow of a ship at sea with a bridge far off in the distance.

Cal DIG I science crew

Cal DIG I science crew

The USGS California Deepwater Investigations and Groundtruthing, or Cal DIG, science crew aboard research vessel Bold Horizon on San Francisco Bay.

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
A group of smiling men and women wearing lifejackets pose on the bow of a ship at sea with a bridge far off in the distance.

Cal DIG I science crew

Cal DIG I science crew

The USGS California Deepwater Investigations and Groundtruthing, or Cal DIG, science crew aboard research vessel Bold Horizon on San Francisco Bay.

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Anemones attached to a rocky outcrop on the seafloor.
Pom-pom anemone on the Pacific Ocean floor off California
Pom-pom anemone on the Pacific Ocean floor off California
Anemones attached to a rocky outcrop on the seafloor.

Pom-pom anemone on the Pacific Ocean floor off California

Pom-pom anemone on the Pacific Ocean floor off California

These “pom-pom” anemones (Liponema sp.) have attached to the rock in a place where there are probably very good currents, which bring small floating particles of food to them. Water depth is 1041 m (3415 ft).

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Anemones attached to a rocky outcrop on the seafloor.

Pom-pom anemone on the Pacific Ocean floor off California

Pom-pom anemone on the Pacific Ocean floor off California

These “pom-pom” anemones (Liponema sp.) have attached to the rock in a place where there are probably very good currents, which bring small floating particles of food to them. Water depth is 1041 m (3415 ft).

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Critters on the bottom of the ocean, a sea star, skate, and rockfish.
Sea life offshore of Morro Bay, California
Sea life offshore of Morro Bay, California
Critters on the bottom of the ocean, a sea star, skate, and rockfish.

Sea life offshore of Morro Bay, California

Sea life offshore of Morro Bay, California

A small juvenile skate (left) and a large rockfish (right) hang out on the murky, silty seafloor with sea stars. Water depth: 856 m (2808 ft).

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
Critters on the bottom of the ocean, a sea star, skate, and rockfish.

Sea life offshore of Morro Bay, California

Sea life offshore of Morro Bay, California

A small juvenile skate (left) and a large rockfish (right) hang out on the murky, silty seafloor with sea stars. Water depth: 856 m (2808 ft).

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
Two men stand on the deck of a ship, and one is giving hand signals while they retrieve a large instrument from the ocean.
Retrieving the MiniROV
Retrieving the MiniROV
Two men stand on the deck of a ship, and one is giving hand signals while they retrieve a large instrument from the ocean.

Retrieving the MiniROV

Retrieving the MiniROV

Retrieving the MBARI (Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute) MiniROV from the Pacific Ocean offshore of California, on research vessel (R/V) Bold Horizon.

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
Two men stand on the deck of a ship, and one is giving hand signals while they retrieve a large instrument from the ocean.

Retrieving the MiniROV

Retrieving the MiniROV

Retrieving the MBARI (Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute) MiniROV from the Pacific Ocean offshore of California, on research vessel (R/V) Bold Horizon.

By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
Filter Total Items: 50

California State Waters Map Series—Benthic habitat characterization in the region offshore Humboldt Bay, California California State Waters Map Series—Benthic habitat characterization in the region offshore Humboldt Bay, California

Coastal and Marine Ecological Classification Standard (CMECS) geoform, substrate, and biotic component geographic information system (GIS) products were developed for the California State Waters of northern California in the region offshore of Humboldt Bay. The study was motivated by interest in development of offshore wind-energy capacity and infrastructure in Federal waters offshore...
Authors
Guy R. Cochrane
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Pockmarks offshore Big Sur, California provide evidence for recurrent, regional, and unconfined sediment gravity flows Pockmarks offshore Big Sur, California provide evidence for recurrent, regional, and unconfined sediment gravity flows

Recent surface ship multibeam surveys of the Sur Pockmark Field, offshore Central California, reveal >5,000 pockmarks in an area that is slated to host a wind farm, between 500- and 1,500-m water depth. Extensive fieldwork was conducted to characterize the seafloor environment and its recent geologic history, including visual observations with remotely operated vehicles, sediment core...
Authors
E. Lundsten, Charles K. Paull, R. Gwiazda, S. Dobbs, D.W. Caress, Linda A. Kuhnz, M. Walton, N. Nieminski, Mary McGann, Thomas Lorenson, Guy R. Cochrane, Jason A. Addison
By
Ecosystems Land Change Science Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

California State waters map series—Benthic habitat characterization in the region offshore of Morro Bay, California California State waters map series—Benthic habitat characterization in the region offshore of Morro Bay, California

Coastal and Marine Ecological Classification Standard geoform, substrate, and biotic component geographic information system products were developed for the California State waters of south-central California in the region offshore of Morro Bay. The study was motivated by interest in development of offshore wind-energy capacity and infrastructure in Federal waters offshore. The Bureau of...
Authors
Guy R. Cochrane, Rikk Kvitek, Aaron Cole, Meghan Sherrier, Alia Roca-Lezra, Sean Hallahan, Peter Dartnell
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Multi-factor biotopes as a method for detailed site characterization in diverse benthic megafaunal communities and habitats in deep-water off Morro Bay, California Multi-factor biotopes as a method for detailed site characterization in diverse benthic megafaunal communities and habitats in deep-water off Morro Bay, California

Here we describe the methods and results for biological characterization of the benthos on a previously unexplored area of central California, USA seafloor. We conducted 40 remotely operated vehicle dives from 371 to 1173 m water depth. Seafloor habitats and megafauna (fish and invertebrates) were documented from 46.8 km of seafloor video footage. Our expanded development and analysis of...
Authors
Linda A. Kuhnz, Lisa Gilbane, Guy R. Cochrane, Charles K. Paull
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

California Deepwater Investigations and Groundtruthing (Cal DIG) I, volume 3 — Benthic habitat characterization offshore Morro Bay, California California Deepwater Investigations and Groundtruthing (Cal DIG) I, volume 3 — Benthic habitat characterization offshore Morro Bay, California

Coastal and Marine Ecological Classification Standard (CMECS) geoform, substrate, and biotic component geographic information system (GIS) products were developed for the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (U.S. EEZ) of south-central California in the region of Santa Lucia Bank motivated by interest in development of offshore wind-energy capacity and infrastructure. The Bureau of Ocean Energy...
Authors
Guy R. Cochrane, Linda A. Kuhnz, Lisa Gilbane, Peter Dartnell, Maureen A. L. Walton, Charles K. Paull
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization

California deepwater investigations and groundtruthing (Cal DIG) I: Fault and shallow geohazard analysis offshore Morro Bay California deepwater investigations and groundtruthing (Cal DIG) I: Fault and shallow geohazard analysis offshore Morro Bay

The California Deepwater Investigations and Groundtruthing (Cal DIG) I project focuses on the potential seafloor hazards and impacts of alternative energy infrastructure in the outer continental shelf region offshore of south-central California. This is one of three reports covering a single study area located between Monterey and Point Conception, California in federal waters outside of...
Authors
Maureen A. L. Walton, Charlie K Paull, Guy R. Cochrane, Jason A. Addison, Roberto Gwiazda, Daniel J. Kennedy, Eve M. Lundsten, Antoinette Gabrielle Papesh
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Ecosystems Land Change Science Program, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Core Preparation and Analysis Laboratory and Sample Repositories, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization
Sediment Flows Create Seafloor Pockmarks offshore of Central California

Sediment Flows Create Seafloor Pockmarks offshore of Central California

A recent study from researchers at Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Stanford University, and USGS debunks the longstanding theory that...

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Collaborative Federal Investigation Reveals Cause of Huntington Oil Spill

Collaborative Federal Investigation Reveals Cause of Huntington Oil Spill

A collaborative investigation involving multiple federal agencies, including the FBI, U.S. Attorneys' Office, U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), Bureau of Ocean...

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California Deepwater Investigations and Groundtruthing

California Deepwater Investigations and Groundtruthing

To advance national and state renewable energy goals, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), USGS, and the State of California are considering...

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*Disclaimer: Listing outside positions with professional scientific organizations on this Staff Profile are for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of those professional scientific organizations or their activities by the USGS, Department of the Interior, or U.S. Government

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