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USC Sea Grant funds research and develops outreach and education products to understand the impact of climate change on the biology and chemistry of the ocean. Similarly, we work with local and state governments to help coastal managers adapt to the impacts of climate change. Learn more...

USC Sea Grant's vision is for a healthier urban environment, reflected by cleaner coastal waters that afford better opportunities for recreation and commerce and the protection of human and ecosystem health. We focus our Coastal Ecosystems Program on Marine Protected Areas, Harmful Algal Blooms, Coastal Ecology & Biology, Aquatic Invasive Species, Water Quality and Toxicology. Learn more...

There are 17 million residents who live in the counties that comprise the Southern California urban watershed – the region served by the University of Southern California (USC) Sea Grant program. With 75% of California's population living within coastal communities it is critical to address the ever-increasing challenges to coastal cities and ecosystems. We focus our Coastal Management Program on Coastal Hazard Planning, Sustainable Coastal Development, and Marine Spatial Planning. Learn more...

The twin ports at Los Angeles and long Beach constitute the busiest seaport complex in the U.S. and close to 45% of all marine freight entering the country comes ashore through the two. While contributing to a vibrant economy with an estimated 960,000 jobs in the region directly or indirectly related to the goods movement system, nevertheless, movement of such massive volumes of goods also creates environmental impacts, mainly in degraded air quality and traffic congestion. USC Sea Grant promotes science and policy research addressing these challenges and assists the public and its policy makers to find an optimal balance between economic development and environmental protection. Moreover, Sea Grant outreach provides advice, analysis and science to the ports as they move forward with sustainable coastal development policies. Our Maritime Affairs Programs focuses on Port Development, Maritime Transportation, Maritime Security, and Alta Sea. Learn more...

Southern California has witnessed the decline of fisheries over several decades. This is of particular concern in the LA region's urban ocean where environmental impacts from increased runoff and pollution, as well as increased recreational fishing, negatively impact fish stocks, such as in the case of the spotted sand bass. Protecting ecosystems by designating marine protected areas through the California Marine Life Protected Act (MLPA) will abet some commercial and recreational fisheries management tools. Developing well-designed aquaculture projects will also help to mediate recreational and commercial fishing pressure on local fishery stocks. Our Aquaculture & Fisheries program focuses on Aquaculture, Seafood Safety, and Fisheries Science.  Learn more...