Monitoring Puget Sound sediments
Marine sediments and the invertebrates, known as benthos, that live within them are important components of the Puget Sound ecosystem. Our team of scientists monitors sediment quality and benthos throughout Puget Sound as part of the Puget Sound Ecosystem Monitoring Program (PSEMP). Researchers and policymakers use these data to help evaluate the health of Puget Sound and the effectiveness of environmental regulations and cleanup efforts.
Why do we monitor the bottom of Puget Sound?
Sediments provide critical habitat and food sources for bottom-dwelling organisms, making them essential for assessing the overall biodiversity and health of aquatic ecosystems. Benthos play a key role in sediment processes and are a vital link in nutrient- and pollution-cycling and the marine food web. In addition, many Puget Sound benthic invertebrates are harvested commercially and are important both economically and culturally.
Addressing key questions
Our Marine Sediment Monitoring Team has studied Puget Sound sediments since 1989. We conduct annual Puget Sound-wide sampling at 50 long-term stations. Additionally, we monitor six urban bays on a six-year rotating cycle, sampling 30 to 36 stations in one bay per year. The following questions are addressed:
- What is the condition of the benthic habitat and associated invertebrate communities?
- How do the habitats and communities change over time?
- What are the relationships between benthic invertebrates and environmental parameters measured, such as nutrients, chemical pollutants, and climate-related pressures?
Marine sediment data products
View our collection of interactive data products that describe our program, results of our studies, and taxa that we have identified since 1989.
Sediment quality in Puget Sound story maps
We have created a collection of interactive story maps that describe our sediment monitoring program and findings. This story map collection allows readers to target the information they want, from background information on our programs to specific monitoring results.
Benthos toolbox
Our searchable taxonomic dashboard provides an all-in-one tool for characterizing taxa identified in Puget Sound monitoring programs since 1989. Features include photo libraries, voucher sheets, environmental context, and blog articles.
PPCP & PFAS in sediments dashboard
This interactive dashboard allows users to map and summarize study results for pharmaceuticals, personal care products (PPCPs), and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Users can seamlessly compare chemical concentrations across different locations and review specific data qualifiers.
Related links
Contact information
Julianne Ruffner
Marine Monitoring Unit Supervisor
julianne.ruffner@ecy.wa.gov
360-280-4518