Science Needs Assessment

dolphins swim close to the surfac eof the water
Common dolphins can often be spotted in Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Robert Schwemmer/NOAA

The sanctuary research team uses key planning and evaluation documents to identify resource management and protection requirements and strategically prioritize projects. These documents include the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary Management Plan, 2016 Sanctuary Condition Report, and the Science Needs Assessment. The Science Needs Assessment provides targeted information on current science priorities and communicates these to potential partners and interested organizations and individuals.