Ocean research, data, and information
We need accurate, up-to-date information to protect Washington’s marine ecosystems and support new and existing ocean and coastal uses.
Marine spatial plan data viewer
We retired the mapping application previously available on the original marine spatial planning website. This data will be accessible through the Washington State Coastal Atlas.
The Coastal Atlas was originally created to support the development of local shoreline master programs. However, the state Coastal Atlas has since grown into a valuable tool for a diverse range of users, from state natural resource agencies like the departments of Fish and Wildlife, Health and Natural Resources, local and Tribal governments, federal agencies, researchers and consultants, and the public.
By integrating marine spatial plan data, the Coastal Atlas allows users to explore spatial data related to marine resources, ocean uses, and ecological features that supports the effective management of Washington’s marine shorelines.
Data gaps on coastal and ocean resources and uses
As social, economic, and ecological conditions change, and priorities for managing marine resources shift, the 2018 marine spatial plan needs to be updated with new data and information.
In 2020, we worked with different state and federal agencies, Tribes, and researchers to identify key topics and data gaps.
In 2023-2024, we gathered feedback about various data gaps by interviewing subject matter experts, including researchers, technical staff from five coastal Tribes, state and federal agencies, and members of the Washington Coastal Marine Advisory Council.
These data gaps span a range of topics relevant to biology, ecology, oceanography, socioeconomics, and culture. We also assessed data gaps related to offshore wind energy and offshore aquaculture. We published a report in 2025 summarizing the feedback we received to help guide future ocean management research efforts.
Marine Spatial Plan resources
These reports and products were created during the development of the marine spatial plan. Most are not Ecology documents. Therefore, we cannot guarantee they meet current Americans with Disabilities Act compliance standards.
Contact information
Mai Aoki
Ocean Planner
mai.aoki@ecy.wa.gov
564-669-1663