What We Do
What We Do
In a Nutshell
ACCESS brings together scientists, educators, and conservation partners to conduct integrated, collaborative, and multidisciplinary research focused on understanding and protecting marine wildlife. Our work examines the distribution and abundance of ocean species in relation to physical and biological oceanographic processes.
Through rigorous, long-term monitoring and analysis, our research provides valuable insights to resource managers, policymakers, and conservation organizations. These findings help guide informed decision-making, address human-related threats, and strengthen public support for marine conservation.
Our Research Focus
Saving Whales from Ship Strikes
We develop and recommend management strategies to reduce vessel-related whale injuries and deaths, particularly in the waters off San Francisco.
Reducing Whale Entanglements
By identifying high-risk areas, we work to decrease whale entanglements associated with commercial crab fisheries.
Protecting Wildlife Hotspots
We help safeguard critical habitats while reducing conflicts between wildlife and existing or proposed human activities.
Developing Ecosystem Indicators
We track ecosystem responses to climate change and provide tools to support climate-smart conservation strategies.
Tracking Ocean Acidification
We document changes in seawater chemistry and assess how marine organisms respond to increasing ocean acidity.
Monitoring Ocean Health
Each year, ACCESS produces the Ocean Climate Indicators Status Report, which highlights key physical and biological trends in the region. These indicators were developed through a two-year collaborative effort led by the Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council, with contributions from more than 50 regional scientists and resource managers.
This report serves as a vital resource for understanding how climate change is affecting ocean ecosystems and for guiding future conservation efforts.
Collaboration and Data Sharing
ACCESS works closely with marine researchers, universities, and government agencies to share data and expertise. We are actively contributing to the California Ocean Observing Systems Data Portal, which provides open access to scientific information on the physical, chemical, and biological conditions of north-central California’s marine environment.
By making data widely available, we support transparency, collaboration, and innovation in marine science.
Education and Public Engagement
Education and outreach are central to our mission. ACCESS provides hands-on learning opportunities through:
- At-sea research experiences for educators through our Teacher-At-Sea Program
- Laboratory and field experiences for college students
- Research opportunities for graduate students
We also partner with photographers, videographers, museums, and science centers to share our work with the public. Our science reaches visitors at institutions such as The Exploratorium, the California Academy of Sciences, and the Lawrence Hall of Science.
Through these efforts, we inspire curiosity, foster environmental stewardship, and connect communities to the ocean.