A report was recently released to review the status of biological observatories along the west coast of the United States. Ocean observations provide critical information for assessing sanctuary health through time and for addressing science needs outlined in the site Management Plans of the 5 west coast sanctuaries. Over 100 workshop participants met to address the following objectives:
Objective I. Identify and prioritize stakeholder marine animal telemetry and biodiversity monitoring and observational needs in the West Coast Region.
Objective II. Identify the existing telemetry and biodiversity observing assets and scientific capabilities in the region.
Objective III. Document regional stakeholder species uses of marine animal telemetry and biodiversity data.
Objective IV. Identify infrastructure and data management challenges and opportunities that exist in the region