Research

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Research

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Learn about our "Living Laboratory"

The unique socio-ecological setting of the Tijuana Estuary, its diversity of ecosystems, and a long history of science-based management, education, and outreach make the Reserve an ideal “living laboratory.”  A primary focus of the Research Program is to track short-term variability and long-term change of local estuaries through monitoring, and many of the monitoring efforts have been in place for decades.  At the heart of this is the NOAA NERR System-Wide Monitoring Program, or SWMP.  Reserve-based monitoring provides a foundation for a variety of research projects, carried out by universities, agencies, and Reserve staff.  The Reserve’s GIS and mapping also provides information crucial for better understanding and managing coastal ecosystems.

Jeff Crooks from the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve works with employees from State Parks, and Fish & Wildlife conducting a vegetation sampling study in the Tijuana River Estuary to the South of Imperial Beach, California.

Monitoring

Tracking the vital signs of estuaries through long-term monitoring of water, weather, habitats, and biota.

Research Projects

Reserve-based science investigating the past, present, and future of local estuaries.

GIS

Collection and analyses of spatial data supporting management.