Date of Graduation

Spring 5-16-2014

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Environmental Management (MSEM)

Department/Program

Environmental Science

First Advisor

Chris Ruehl

Second Advisor

Gretchen Coffman

Third Advisor

Stephanie Ohshita

Abstract

Seabird breeding colonies on islands off the coast of California offer a unique tool to help guide marine spatial planning. The life histories of seabirds can be used to develop locations of ecological importance along the coast of California. Tracking methodologies and habitat modeling related to seabird habitat utilization can be used to inform management approaches which can aid in the expansion of marine protected areas (MPAs). Protecting ocean habitats will help mitigate impacts of climate change and ensure the ecosystem services provided by marine environments. Areas within the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary were analyzed to locate candidate MPA expansion based on available data.

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