ROV Surveys of the Mid-depth and Deep Subtidal Ecosystems, California North Coast MPA Baseline Study, 2014 to 2015

Marine Applied Research and Exploration (MARE) preformed quantitative baseline surveys within the NCSR in 2014 and 2015 with the overall goal to describe the condition of three distinctive priority ecosystem features within four MPAs and their adjacent reference study areas: a) mid-depth rock ecosystems, b) softbottom subtidal ecosystems, and c) deep ecosystems (including canyons). Long-term monitoring trends within these habitats will be compared to baseline conditions, assisting in evaluating MPA effectiveness. The four MPAs chosen for evaluation include: Point St. George Reef Offshore SMCA, Reading Rock State Marine Reserve, Mattole Canyon State Marine Reserve and Ten Mile State Marine Reserve. Outside reference areas with similar habitats and depths were also surveyed for comparison. During the first two years following implementation, benthic visual surveys were conducted using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to assess initial changes in fishes, macro-invertebrates and associated seafloor habitats. The ROV collected video and still imagery while moving along a fixed path (transect) along the sea floor. Video imagery collected was analyzed to characterize substrate, habitat types, habitat complexity (rugosity), and estimate finfish and macro-invertebrate distribution, relative abundance and density. In total, 60 ROV dives were completed surveying more than 106 km (19 ha) between 13 and 421 m deep. In addition, over 16,500 still photos were taken.