Pescadero Lagoon Science Panel

A science panel was formed in early 2013 to evaluate the physical and biological characteristics of the Pescadero lagoon and marsh ecosystem and to consider recommendations regarding future management actions there.  Specifically, the panel is charged with reviewing existing literature and data related to the Pescadero system and similar coastal estuarine systems.  From this literature and data review, they will draw conclusions about how the Pescadero marsh and lagoon ecosystem is functioning.  Their findings and recommendations to state and federal agencies and to the public are expected later in 2013.

The science panel consists of the following seven independent and outside experts:

• John Largier, Ph.D., expert in Estuarine/Lagoon Physical Processes from the University of California, Davis (UCD) Bodega Marine Lab
• Ivano Aiello, Ph.D., a Marine Geologist from Moss Landing Marine Lab
• Benjamin Bostick, Ph.D., a Sediment Chemistry Specialist from Columbia University
• David Jacobs, Ph.D., expert in Estuary Biology from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
• Jessie Lacy, Ph.D., expert in Estuarine/Lagoon Physical Processes from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
• Celine Pallud, Ph.D., a Sediment Chemistry expert from the University of California, Berkeley
• Mark Stacey, Ph.D., an expert in Estuarine/Lagoon Physical Processes from the University of California, Berkeley   

The science panel will  meet together several times over the upcoming months.  Prior to beginning their efforts, a public meeting will be held to introduce the panel chair and allow the public an opportunity to provide related comments. 

The formation of this science panel is a joint project of California State Parks, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Restoration Center and National Marine Fisheries Service, Southwest Region.

The Pescadero lagoon and marsh ecosystem is within Pescadero State Beach and Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve and is managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. 

Public Hearings

Wednesday February 27, 2013
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Historic Train Depot 
110 Higgins Canyon Rd., Half Moon Bay, CA

At this public meeting, the role of the science panel will be explained and time will be allotted for interested members of the public to provide comments for the panel’s consideration.