Long-term marine water & sediment data
We gather high quality data to accurately document and quantitatively assess current conditions and long-term changes in the diverse marine regions of our state. Our marine monitoring program collects, manages, and provides free access to consistent high quality marine-monitoring environmental data that describe the physics, chemistry, and biological conditions of the water column and the sediment.
Water quality in estuaries such as Puget Sound has large natural variations changing with depth, tides, influences from rivers and the ocean, wind, and sunlight. Humans influence these patterns through their activity and footprint on the environment. Combined natural and human pressures influence the quality of marine water and sediments found of Puget Sound, Grays Harbor, and Willapa Bay.
To understand natural and human influences more objectively and quantitatively, we monitor water and sediment in Puget Sound, Grays Harbor, and Willapa Bay with modern sensors, sampling gear, and widely recognized methods. Data quality assurance plans and continuously vigilant quality control assures that you have access to consistent and reliable high-quality data.
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Contact information
Julianne Ruffner
Marine Monitoring Unit Supervisor
julianne.ruffner@ecy.wa.gov
360-280-4518