[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]







                     STATE OF CALIFORNIA








           NATIONAL ESTUARY PROGRAM


               THE NOMINATION OF MORRO BAY






















                                LIFO










        GC
        97
        N38
        1991

                OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
               STATE WATER RESOURCES CONTROL BOARD












                                       STATE OF CALIFORNIA

                             OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
                                              AND THE
                            STATE WATER RESOURCES CONTROL BOARD









                                   NATIONAL ESTUARY PROGRA7/
                                   ovo


                                   THE NOMINATION OF MORRO BAY





























           W. Don Maughan                             James M. Strock
           Chairman                                   Secretary for Environmental Protection
           State Water Resources Control Board        Office of Environmental Protection
           901 P Street                               555 Capitol Mall, Suite 235
           Sacramento, CA 95814                       Sacramento, CA 95814














                                                MORRO BAY


                        Governor's Nomination for the National Estuary Program
                                Under Section 320 of the Clean Water Act



            By the powers conferred on us by the Governor of California and under Section
            320(a)(1) of the Clean Water Act, we hereby nominate Morro Bay, San Luis
            Obispo County, California, for the National Estuary Program.


            We recognize the need for a management conference on Morro Bay to better
            define the environmental concerns in the system; to address the extent,
            complexity and sources of pollutants; and to develop and implement a
            comprehensive conservation and management plan for action to protect and
            improve the Bay's condition. We further recognize that the State of
            California and the Environmental Protection     Agency will share the
            responsibility for management decisions and resources regarding priority
            issues in the Bay.


            In signing this nomination, we commit to the seven purposes of management
            conferences as outlined in the Clean Water Act [Section 320(b)) and, when the
            management conference is convened, the management conference will: assess
            trends in water quality, natural resources and uses; determine the cause of
            environmental change through data collection, characterization and analysis;
            evaluate point and nonpoint loadings and relate them to observed changes;
            write a comprehensive conservation and management plan which includes
            recommendations for priority actions; coordinate implementation of the
            comprehensive plan with Federal, State and local agencies; provide monitoring
            to assess the effectiveness of the implementation actions; and review Federal
            financial assistance program and Federal development projects for
            consistency.


            We also agree to the statutory requirements for management conference
            membership [Section 320(c)) and that the State of California will participate
            in that Conference.    Further, the statutory requirement for matching funds
            [Section 320(g)(3)] will be fulfilled by local funding. The Federal and
            local funds will be used to complete the characterization of priority
            problems and development of the comprehensive conservation and management
            plan.



            W. Don Maughan      U                      James M. Strock
            Chairman                                   Secretary for Environmental Protection
            State Water Resources   Control Board      Office of Environmental Protection


            Date:           0                          Date:












                                                           TABLE OF CONTENTS



                LIST OF TABLES            ..........................................................                                iv

                LIST OF FIGURES             .........................................................                               iv


                EXECUTIVE SUMMARY                  ....................................................                                v


                INTRODUCTION             ...........................................................                                   I


                NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE OF MORRO BAY                              .................................                      I
                         Questions     .....                                                                                           2
                         Opportunity for '@!)Dljicaiion of Results to Other Estuary Pro2rams                     ............          2
                         Morro Bay's Importance to the Nation - (Livine Resources)                     ..................              3
                                  Migratory Birds/Wetlands           ........                                                          3
                                  Nursery Functions of the Estuary               iii l a*;i:a*n* iiabi'tats'                           5
                                  Nursery Functions of the Estuary               Estuarine and Marine Systems             ......       5
                                  Endangered and Threatened Species                ...............................                     6
                         Geoeraphic Scope of the Estuary             ........................................                          8

                NEED FOR A MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE FOR MORRO BAY                                           .................          10
                         Ouestions .             *****'***    .... ********'*''*******''********'''*                  ....   '-     10
                                       in * ;ia
                         Economic I       @o     nce   ..................................................                           11
                         Recreational Uses       .....................................................                              11
                                  Beaches, Parks, and Wildlife Sanctuaries                ...........................               11
                                  Sport and Recreational Fishing             ...................................                    12
                                  Marinas and Harbors           ............................................                        12
                                  Tourism                                                                                           13
                         Comm                       *i i@s*es   ............................................                        13
                                                 'iria
                                  ercial/Indus
                                  Commercial Fisheries          ............................................                        13
                                  Shipping                                                                                     ...  13
                                  Oil and Gas i;e*velopment          ........................................                       13
                                  Industrial Water Supply/Energy             ...................................                    13
                                  Educational and Scientific Research               ...............................                 14
                                  Mariculture      ....................................................                             14
                         Livine Resources        ......................................................                             14
                         Areas of Bioloeical Importance            ..........................................                       17
                         Reizionally Important Rare and            Endanaered Species         ........................              20
                         Marine Mammals          ......................................................                             20
                                  Harbor Seals       ...................................................                            23
                                  Sea Otters     .........                                                     .............        23
                         Environmental Problems and.              a        fect Relationships        ....................           23
                                  Habitat Loss       ...................................................                            23
                                  Nutrients      ......................................................                             29
                                  Bacteria .                                                                                        29
                         Heavy Metal and i:OX*ic *fiv@ r'o* c*a*r*b*o*n's*                                                          30
                         Urban Runoff        ........................................................                               30
                                  Risk from Oil Development and Spills               ..............................                 31
                                  Loss of Freshwater Flows           ........................................                       31
                         Institutional Arr neements           .............................................                         32


                LIKELIHOOD FOR SUCCESS OF THE MORRO BAY MANAGEMENT
                         CONFERENCE              .......................................................                            33
                         Ouestions     ............................................................                                 33


                                                                           iii











                       Pollution Control History  ..............................................         34
                             Traditional Federal Programs    .....................................       34
                             New Federal and State Activities   ..................................       35
                             State Water Quality Programs     ....................................       36
                             Local Programs ...                                                          37
                                                 **is*            n
                       Manaaement Conference Goa , b@ie*cii*v*e*s*a              s  .................    37
                       Management Conference Organization and Participants    ......................     38
                             Public Support    .................................................         38
                             Political Commitment    ............................................        41
                             Financial Capability  .............................................         42

               FINDINGS      ................................................................            43


               CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS                 ...................................       45


               LITERATURE CITED         .......................................................          46




                                                    LIST OF TABLES


                    Table                                                                              Page

                       I     Federal and State Listed Threatened and Endangered Species
                             in Morro Bay Estuary and Watershed                                            7

                       2     Habitat Distributions of the Morro Bay Watershed                            16

                       3     Areas of Special Biological Importance                                      21

                       4     Special Animals Found in the Morro Bay Area                                 22

                       5     Depth to Area Data for Morro Bay, 1887-1987                                 28



                                                   LIST OF FIGURES


                    Figure                                                                             Page

                       I     Morro Bay Study Area                                                          4

                       2     Marine Resources of Morro Bay                                               18

                       3     Morro Bay Habitats                                                          19

                       4     Weekly Mean Sea Otter Counts, Morro Bay, 1987-1988                          25

                       5     Marsh Expansion, 1897-1965                                                  26

                       6     Mean Tidal Prism vs. Year, Morro Bay, CA 1887-1987                          27

                       7     Management Conference Structure                                             40





                                                            iv












                                              EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

             Section 320 of the Clean Water Act established the National Estuary Program to address
             two situations concerning the nation's estuarine habitats: improvement of water quality and
             maintenance of water quality. Management conferences have been convened in a number
             of estuaries where there is a need to plan for the improvement of an already polluted
             s
             ituation. Morro Bay is relatively unpolluted and falls into EPA's second category. While
             i
             the estuary is no longer truly pristine, it is less disturbed by human activities, and most of
             the pollution problems associated with other California estuaries have not yet occurred.
             However, the bay is filling with sediment at an unnatural and accelerating rate, and unless
             this problem is addressed soon, the life of the bay is threatened.

             There are many known and potential threats to this nationally significant estuary. The
             State of California requests that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
             Administrator convene a Management Conference for Morro Bay to define its complex
             biological, geographical and political relationships and to develop and implement a
             resource management strategy protecting and enhancing water quality, shellfish, fish and
             wildlife, and recreational values.

             The estuary at Morro Bay contains the most significant wetland system on California's
             central coast. It serves a critical environmental function on the Pacific Coast as well as to
             international interests, in that it supports many species of migratory birds protected by
             International treaties and provides a protected harbor for off-shore marine fisheries.

             The convening of a management conf erence f or Morro Bay will be important f or the f uture
             of the many species found there, especially the very large number of State and
             federally-listed endangered and threatened plants and animals which reside in or near the
             Bay or depend on Morro Bay for an important part of their life cycle. In addition to these
             identified species of concern, Morro Bay's geographic location results in an unique
             environment where southern species mix with northern species. This physical and
             biological assemblage is important in supporting many species at the edge of their range.
             Information learned about these species and attendant management strategies, will be
             critical to their continued survival, and should be directly applicable in other areas of
             their range.

             The Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have highlighted the
             lack of estuarine data from the central coast and the importance of this information to
             national planning.

                    "Data on estuarine species inhabiting smaller estuaries and estuaries remote from
                    university and/or marine labs (in particular, central California from Monterey to
                    Point Conception) are scant. Biological and physical processes and interactions are
                    poorly understood for major California estuaries and unknown for the smaller
                    estuaries. The lack of such information severely limits the ability to assess potential
                    effects on estuaries of human activities such as those associated with offshore oil
                    and gas development" (Stokes and Jones, 1981).

             The California State Legislature in Senate Resolution No. 176, declared in 1966 that the
             preservation of Morro Bay's fish, wildlife, recreational and aesthetic resources was of great
             importance to the people of California and recognized the need for a comprehensive
             management plan. This concern was reaffirmed on June 29, 1990 when the Legislature
             enacted Assembly Concurrent Resolution 118, which "affirms the importance and value of
             Morro Bay, its estuary, and its environs to the people of Calif ornia...and supports the
             nomination of Morro Bay as a National Estuary as provided in federal law, to be
             administered by the EPA."


                                                           v










              The process of convening a management conference for Morro Bay, and the subsequent
              development and implementation of a comprehensive conservation and management plan
              will be very different than that applied to the much more complex estuaries already in the
              program. The process developed here will be a valuable model for the large number of
              similar small estuaries nationwide.

              A significant need exists for convening a management conference for Morro Bay. Local,
              state and federal agencies already support this goal. The state is prepared to strongly
              support this effort. Funding of at least 25 percent of the program will be provided by
              local sources to support the conference.

              The State of California anticipates the rapid and successful completion of a comprehensive
              conservation and management plan for Morro Bay. There is broad support and an existing
              informal structure for a management conference. Acceptance into the National Estuary
              Program will allow this structure to coalesce and provide the formal relationships necessary
              to manage the bay in a comprehensive and integrated manner.

              In conclusion, the State of California strongly supports the commissioning of a management
              conference for Morro Bay. We request that the EPA Administrator accept this nomination
              and direct his staff to take all measures to get this needed effort underway.




































                                                          vi












                                        NATIONAL ESTUARY PROGRAM


                                        THE NOMINATION OF MORRO BAY



                                                 INTRODUCTION

            The National Estuary Program (NEP) became part of the Federal Water Pollution Control
            Act (Clean Water Act or CWA) with the enactment of the Water Quality Act of 1987 (PL
            100-4).

            The State of California submits this nomination of Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo County,
            California in accordance with Section 320(a)(1) of the Clean Water Act. The nomination
            was prepared using the final guidance for the contents of a governor's nomination
            (Environmental Protection Agency, 1988). The information which follows substantiates the
            national significance of Morro Bay, the need for convening a management conference and
            the likelihood of conference success.

            The State of California is committed to participating in a Morro Bay management
            conference. The required 25 percent [Section 320(g)(3)] match will be provided by local in-
            kind funds. The State of California is also committed to the seven statutory purposes of
            the management conference [Section 320(b)]. The project will be guided by the
            management conference and will, first, assess trends in bay water quality, natural resources
            and uses; determine causes of environmental change through an assessment of data
            collection, characterization and analysis; evaluate point and nonpoint pollutant loads and
            relate them to the observed changes. Second, the project will prepare and the management
            conference will approve a comprehensive conservation and management plan which will
            include recommendations for priority actions; develop plans to coordinate the
            comprehensive plan with Federal, State and local agencies and organizations; provide
            monitoring to assess the effectiveness of the implementation actions; and review Federal
            financial assistance programs and Federal development projects for consistency.

            The State also pledges to meet the statutory requirements of the management conference
            membership. Following the establishment of a Morro Bay NEP Policy Committee, a broad
            range of individuals from the public, local governments, local universities, user groups,
            environmental groups, State and Federal resource protection agencies, and federal, State
            and local regulatory agencies will be assembled from the present Task Force to form the
            various necessary committee structure. Committees formed will be a Public Advisory
            Committee, and a Technical Advisory Committee, with a number of technical
            subcommittees.

            At the beginning of each section of the nomination the important questions are answered
            in summary form. After the questions, a more detailed explanation of topics required by
            the EPA guidance are discussed.



                                  NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE OF MORRO BAY

            Morro Bay is significant on the national level because it is characteristic of many estuaries
            that face environmental and institutional problems. This portion of the nomination
            addresses the factors which demonstrate the bay to be a significant resource in need of a
            special program to preserve the bay's resources and prevent further degradation.











                                                          -2-


               Ouestions

               0      How can the lessons learned from this bay be applied to other coastal areas within
                      the state or to other states? What problems, causes of those problems, and/or
                      biogeographic area is represented by this estuary that is not already addressed by
                      existing programs in the NEP?

                      Morro Bay is a relatively pristine estuary threatened by development pressure and
                      changing land use. It is an example of the many small and medium sized estuaries
                      on the Pacific Coast and around the nation that face similar threats. Sedimentation
                      and habitat loss, including deepwater, lagoon, littoral and wetland habitat have
                      already occurred. Shellfish harvesting has been restricted due to bacterial
                      contamination. The development of technical solutions and institutional
                      arrangements to prevent further pollution could save the natural resources of Morro
                      Bay and serve as a model for saving resources elsewhere.

               0      Why is the estuary important to the nation?

                      Morro Bay is the only major estuary in California south of San Francisco that has
                      not been significantly altered by human activities. A large number of federally-
                      listed endangered and threatened plant and animal species reside or occur in the
                      watershed or rely on the estuary for a significant part of their life cycles. The
                      estuary serves a critical environmental function for a number of migratory bird
                      species of the Pacific Flyway. International treaties protect these species and their
                      habitat. The estuary serves as an important breeding and nursing area for a number
                      of species important to the commercial and recreational fisheries industry.

               0      What is the geographic scope of Morro Bay?

                      The proposed study area is the watershed of Morro Bay and the Bay itself seaward
                      to the breakwaters at the harbor mouth (Figure 1). The 48,000 acre (75 square
                      miles) Morro Bay watershed lies entirely within San Luis Obispo County.


               Opiportunity for Application of Results to Other Estuary Programs

               Morro Bay offers the National Estuary Program (NEP) an opportunity for a successful
               program to prevent the degradation of a relatively pristine estuary. Both its relatively
               small size and relatively simple political and institutional setting make it a site where
               significant results can be achieved within five years. The relatively pristine environment
               of Morro Bay offers the NEP an opportunity to address the protection and enhancement of
               estuaries. Many existing Management Conferences focus on impaired conditions and
               strategies for improvement. One problem not addressed through existing Management
               Conferences is threats to currently pristine environments. A Management Conference at
               Morro Bay could lead the way in providing protective management strategies which can be
               mirrored by the many threatened small estuaries across the nation.

               Morro Bay's location, in juxtaposition with two of the National Oceanographic and
               Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA's) programs, the Elkhorn Slough Estuarine Research
               Reserve and the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary, has much to offer. A Management
               Conference for Morro Bay will complement these by implementing research findings and
               providing these programs much needed watershed management techniques.











                                                          -3-

            Morro Bay's Importance to the Nation - (Living Resources)

            Migratory Birds/Wetlands

            Each year, millions of waterfowl and shorebirds migrate between their Canadian and
            Alaskan arctic and Great Plains breeding areas and their wintering areas along the coasts
            of southern North America, Central America, and South America. The international nature
            and importance of these populations have been recognized and have been protected and
            managed through international treaties since 1918. These migrations occur along chains of
            wetlands, known as "flyways," which provide migratory resting and feeding stops and
            overwintcring areas.

            Morro Bay's position makes it an important component of the Pacific Flyway's coastal
            wetlands. At the beginning of the century, there were 28 estuaries of significant size
            between Morro Bay and Ensenada, Mexico. Since that time 15 estuaries have been modified
            slightly or moderately, 10 have been altered drastically, and three have been destroyed
            (Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife, 1972). By 1975, Morro Bay was identified as one
            of the top 10 priority wetlands in California by the U.S. Bureau of Sport Fisheries and
            Wildlife and by the State Department of Fish and Game (California Coastal Plan, 1975).

            In California, approximately 90 percent of all wetlands (Dennis et al., 1984) and 70 percent
            of the coastal wetlands (Speth, 1979) have been destroyed by draining, dredging, or filling.
            Although in recent years destruction of wetlands has abated, it has not ceased.
            Additionally, new threats have been identified, such as accumulation of toxins from
            agricultural, industrial and urban runoff, and increasing freshwater diversions.

            The estuary, together with adjacent inshore ocean waters and upland freshwater locations,
            annually hosts approximately 25 species of migrant and overwintering waterfowl.
            According to the records of the Morro Coast Audubon Society's Christmas Bird Count, held
            annually,pince 1961, the most abundant wintering waterfowl have been American
            widgeon, lesser scaup, brant, and northern pintail. Significant numbers of ruddy duck,
            surf scoter, bufflehead, and green-winged teal also overwinter at Morro Day.

            In addition to waterfowl, Morro Bay is an important migratory stop and wintering area for
            shorebirds (avocets, stilts, plovers, sandpipers, and phalaropes). Up to 24 species have been
            identified during the annual Audubon Christmas counts, and an additional 10 species have
            been recorded during migratory stopovers on the estuary.

            In 1988, Point Reyes Bird Observatory (PRBO) began a project to determine the status and
            prospects for shorebirds in wetlands of the Pacific Flyway. Among the goals of the project
            are to obtain a measure of shorebird use of each major wetland of the Flyway, to identify
            long-term trends in shorebird abundance, to document the threats to population stability,
            and to promote conservation of wetland habitat.

            Census of shorebirds on Morro Bay estuary are being conducted as a part of PRBO's Pacific
            Flyway Project. Results of these censuses have shown interesting and important
            differences between Morro Bay and most other northern and central California wetlands.
            At Morro Bay, willets and marbled godwits make up a substantially larger percentage of
            the total population than at most other sites. Also, least sandpipers greatly outnumber
            western sandpipers at Morro Bay, whereas the converse is true for most other coastal
            wetlands. The significance of these differences is not well understood, and further
            research is needed.



                *Scientific names were not used in order to make the nomination more readable to the
            non-scientist.












                                                                        -4-















                                                                                              ORRO BAY WATERSHED
                                                                                                                       LOCAT)ON h-iAP'
























                                            Ds                                             'v"
                                ............. ..
                                                                     I IY








                                                                                                            C











                      Figure 1. Morro Bay Study Area
                      Source:    USDA/SCS 1989.     Erosion and Sediment Study, Morro Bay Watershed.
                                 Coastal San Luis Resource Conservation Dist-.4,ct and @alifornia
                                 Coas-.al Conservancy.













            Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network is an international coalition of
            organizations committed to shorebird conservation through international recognition of
            important sites. Significance is recognized at two levels, Hemispheric Sites and Regional
            Sites. Regional Sites are those holding over 20,000 shorebirds or over 5 percent of any
            species' population over a year. Morro Bay is likely to qualify as a Regional Site (Stenzel
            et al., 1989).

            Nursery Functions of the Estuary -- Riparian Habitats

            Chorro and Los Osos creeks provide the primary freshwater input to the estuary. These
            creeks support an assemblage of native fish which include steelhead rainbow trout,
            three-spined stickleback, prickly sculpin, and tidewater goby. The creeks support dense
            riparian vegetation, which serve as transportation corridors and habitat for numerous
            species of birds and wildlife. Sensitive species such as redlegged frogs and southwestern
            pond turtles can be found inhabiting these areas.

            The creeks provide spawning and nursery habitat for steelhead, an important recreational
            species on the Pacific coast. California state policy (California Fish and Game Code, 1988)
            recognizes steelhead as a valuable resource with strict environmental requirements and a
            limited range. It also recognizes that California's steelhead resources are largely dependent
            upon the quality and quantity of habitat available to them. The Chorro Creek watershed
            supports one of the southernmost remaining runs of steelhead on the Pacific coast.
            Steelhead are especially dependent upon low salinity estuarine environments and
            freshwater habitats. The Morro Bay estuary provides the transition environment critical to
            the juvenile phase of this fishery. Because of damage and threats to their restricted
            habitat, state policy requires that emphasis shall be placed on management programs to
            inventory, protect, and restore or improve the habitat of natural steelhead stocks
            (California Fish and Game Code, 1988). Recent research has identified estuary and lagoon
            environments as optimum nursery areas for juvenile steelhead with growth rates and
            densities of fish much higher than in freshwater areas (Smith, 1987).

            The Federal Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976 and Fish and Wildlife
            Coordination Act also emphasize the importance of maintaining anadromous fishery
            resources and habitats. Section 404(b)(1) of the Clean Water Act (450 CFR Part 230)
            specifically identifies riffle and pool habitat "complexes" as special aquatic sites of
            concern. These areas provide primary feeding, spawning and rearing habitat for steelhead
            and other fish. Siltation is regarded as a source of fill under Section 404, and is
            particularly detrimental to riffle and pool habitat. The Clean Water Act specifically
            recognizes the need to regulate the discharge of fill in and adjacent to riparian habitats,
            wetlands and streams. Additionally, President Bush has instituted a national policy of "no
            net loss of wetlands." This wetland policy could affect the estuarine environment of Morro
            Bay itself, as well as to the upland riparian vegetation throughout the watershed.

            Nursery Functions of the Estuary -- Estuarine and Marine Systems

            Estuaries play a vital role in the reproductive and early life histories of numerous species
            of fish and invertebrates which form the basis of many recreational and commercial
            fisheries. Estuaries provide a level of protection and productivity found nowhere else. Of
            the more than 70 fish species listed as occurring in Morro Bay (Gerdes et al., 1974;
            Nakamura, 1986), 30 species arc economically important, and most of the others are
            ecologically important forage species. There is a growing concern that environmental
            problems, such as sedimentation and water quality degradation, have substantially reduced
            the estuary's productive capabilities.












                                                             -6-

               An example of this may be represented by the status of California halibut in Morro Bay.
               This fish is one of central and southern California's most popular recreational and
               co'mmercial species. Recent work conducted by researchers in southern California (Kramer
               and Hunter, 1987) has shown that the majority of juvenile halibut spend their first year in
               the shallow waters of estuaries and enclosed bays. This research has lead to speculation
               that the sharp decline of halibut in southern California since the 1930's is directly related
               to loss of estuarine habitat. The same thing may be happening in Morro Bay. California
               Fish and Game biologists have attempted on several occasions in 1988 to collect juvenile
               halibut in Morro Bay, but have yet to find a halibut younger than two years of age (L.
               Laurent, pers. comm.). This may indicate that the fisheries are not being sustained by
               estuarine nursery production and may be jeopardized. The combined recreational and
               commercial value to the local area of this one fishery alone, averages approximately
               $500,000 annually.

               Endangered and Threatened Species

               San Luis Obispo County's rich biotic diversity is partially the result of its geographic
               location within the climatic transition zone between northern and southern California. A
               high number of threatened and endangered species arc dependent upon the diverse habitats
               of the estuary and watershed for their survival and recovery. Although many of the rare
               species occur in publicly-owned, environmentally sensitive areas, there is concern that
               increased human encroachment and further loss of habitat due to development will result
               in more species being listed, especially plant species (California Native Plant Society
               [CNPS], undated). Federal Candidate I and 2 species are included in Table 1.

               The stabilized dunes support the coastal dune scrub which is the habitat of the banded
               dune snail and the Morro Bay kangaroo rat, both of which are listed as endangered by
               international, Federal and State agencies. Both species have been reduced by loss of
               habitat due to development and competition or predation with introduced species (other
               snail species and house cats, respectively). The Morro Bay kangaroo rat requires open,
               sandy areas rather than mature scrub which occurs in the absence of periodic fircs.
               Recovery efforts for this species include the establishment of the Morro Dunes Ecological
               Reserve, habitat rehabilitation activities and a captive breeding program for eventual
               reintroduction.

               The bay and ocean beaches are the preferred hunting and resting areas for the California
               brown pelicans which are primarily May to February visitors, with a small year-round
               population of immature non-breeders. Pesticide pollution once reduced this species'
               reproductive success but the population seems to be recovering.

               The reproductive success of the American peregrine falcon in Morro Bay has been reduced
               to dangerously low levels. Some detrimental factors, still present in the ecosystem, are
               impacting new adult falcons here. The pair of peregrine falcons at Morro Rock requires
               monitoring and manipulation to produce young. Morro Rock Ecological Reserve, which
               provides nesting sanctuary, is the most famous natural nesting site for percgrine falcons on
               the Pacific coast. The coastal strand and wetlands in and around the bay offer prime
               foraging habitat for wintering falcons and for the resident pair.

               The snowy plover, a federal candidate, utilizes the sandspit and sandy ocean beaches
               around Morro Bay to nest and forage. Populations of this shore bird are declining due to
               predation (Hutchinson et al., 1987) and human activity.

               The southern sea otter has only recently become a familiar sight inside the bay as the
               population is expanding. Morro Bay is close to the present southern limit of the sea otter's
               range.












                                                                  -7.




              Table 1. Federal and State Listed Threatened and Endangered
                               Species in Morro Bay Estuary and Watershed


                Common Name                               Scientific Name                                   Status

                Banded Dune Snail                         Helminthoglypta walkeriana                        I
                California Brackishwater Snail            Tyronia imitator                                  2
               *Morro Blue                                Plebejus icarioides moroensis                     2
                Monarch Butterfly                         Danaus plexippus                                  IN7
                Tidewater Goby                            Eucyclogobious newberryi                          2
                Black Legless Lizard                      Anniella pulchr EjEn                              2
                California Brown Pelican                  Pelecanus occidentalis californicus               FE, CE, CP
                Golden Eagle                              Aouila chyysaetos                                 CP
                American Peregrine Falcon                 Falco peregrinus anatum                           FE, CE, CP
                California Black Rail                     Laterallus jamaicensis coturniculus               2, CT, CP
                California Clapper Rail                   Rallus longirostris occidentalis                  FE, CE, CP
                Snowy Plover                              Charadrius alexandrinus                           2
                Western Yellow-billed Cuckoo              Coccyzus ameTicanus occidentalis                  2, CT
             . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

                Morro Bay Kangaroo Rat                    Dipodomys heermanni morroensis                    INT, FE, CE, CP
                Southern Sea Otter                        Enhvdra lutris nereis                             FT, CP



                Beach Spectacle Pod                       Dithyrea maritima                                 2
                Arroyo De La Cruz Manzanita               ArctostaphyI05 cruzensis                          2

                Morro Manzanita                           Arctostaphvlos morroensis                         1

                Indian Knob Mountain Balm                 Eriodictvon altissimum                            1
                Pt. Reyes Birds's-Beak                    Cordylanthus maritimus   palustris                2
                Salt Mlarsh Bird's-Beak                   Cordvlanthus maritimus   maritimus                FEE, CE
                Jones La,.ta                              Layia jonesii                                     2
              Status codes:    INT    IU'.NN "Red Book"     CE   California, Endangered        I   Federal* Candidate, suff.-cient
                               FE    Federal, Endangered CE      California, Threatened            evidence to list
                               FT    Federal, Threatened    CP   California, Fully Protected 2=    Federal Candidate, may warrent
                                 listed in California DPR, 1987                                    listing












               The salinity requirement of the California brackish water snail (32 parts per thousand   .
               [ppt]) indicates that it occurs near the freshwater inflows. Patchy but abundant
               populations of this Federal Candidate 2 species are found near Los Osos Creek.

               The coastal brackish marsh, near the mouths of Chorro and Los Osos Creeks is the habitat
               of the tidewater goby. This small fish is vulnerable to human disturbance because of its
               restricted habitat requirements, short lifespan and limited movement of the isolated
               populations.

               The upland reaches of the watershed, extending to the volcanic peaks which separate the
               two watersheds, is habitat for the golden eagle, a state-protected raptor that is a year-round
               resident here. Large hunting territories are required by this species, so only a few pairs
               should be expected in a watershed dominated by cattle grazing and intensive vegetable
               f arming.

               The monarch butterfly is not in danger of extinction as a species, but the North American
               populations are very vulnerable due to their overwintering strategy of congregating in
               large flocks along the coast. The conservation of monarch butterfly overwintering sites
               (such as those around Morro Bay) have been designated as a top priority of the
               International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. The monarch
               butterfly is protected internationally by the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory
               Species of Wild Animals (Nagano and Lane, 1985).

               Riparian willow thickets along creeks in the Morro Bay watershed are nesting and foraging
               habitat and suspected nesting habitat for the threatened western yellow-billed cuckoo.
               There have been no recent records of nesting cuckoos in the Morro Bay area.

               Arroyo de la Cruz manzanita grows in the uplands near Hollister Peak and southeast of Los
               Osos Creek, on south facing slopes of the bluffs near Los Osos mesa. Jones' layia (a
               member of the sunflower family) grows in the Chorro Valley and on Black Hill. Both
               species have Federal Candidate 2 status.

               Morro manzanita and the Indian Knob mountain balm grow in the coastal sage chaparral
               of north and west facing slopes of old dunes. The beach spectacle pod occurs on the Morro
               Bay Sandspit on stabilized, younger coastal dunes where the black legless lizard is also
               found. The morro blue butterfly is found in the Los Osos Oaks Reserve, a community of
               dwarf coastal live oaks, coastal sage scrub, and riparian vegetation.

               .The coastal salt marsh, in the shallowest parts of the bay, characterized by pickleweed and
               jaumea is home to the very rare California black rail and the California clapper rail. Only
               small remnant populations exist in a few of California's estuaries. The California clapper
               rail has not been reported in Morro Bay in recent years. Black rail populations here are
               very low, probably due to habitat losses and discontinuous areas of remaining habitat.

               Salt marsh bird's-beak, a Federally and State endangered plant, and the Pt. Reyes
               bird's-beak exist in the upper marsh zone where sedimentation, alterations in shallow
               groundwater flows, and foot traffic pose a threat. Sweet Springs preserve will help to
               protect a population of salt marsh bird's-beak.


               Geographic Scope of the Estuary

               The Morro Bay study area will include the Morro Bay watershed seaward to a line
               connecting the breakwaters at the harbor mouth (Figure I).. Morro Bay estuary extends
               from its connection with the open ocean at the extreme northern end up into the
               freshwater portions of Chorro and Los Osos creeks. Morro Bay meets the statutory











                                                          -9-

            definition of an estuary. Chorro Creek and its tributaries have traditionally supported
            steelhead runs to their upper reaches. These migrations continue today but are threatened
            by dams, water diversions, sedimentation and loss of riparian habitat. Estero Bay, the
            marine system seaward of Morro Bay, is not within the study area but has several facilities
            and hydrologic systems that interact with Morro Bay. These are mentioned in this
            document and will be fully addressed in the comprehensive conservation and management
            plan. The Morro Bay watershed lies entirely within San Luis Obispo County, California,
            with the city of Morro Bay and the County being the only local jurisdictions.

            The Morro Bay Estuary lies at the western end of two coastal valleys (Figure 1). The
            valleys have been developed by erosion of broadly folded sedimentary rocks, especially of
            the highly erosive Franciscan Formation. The western ends of the valleys, which are
            oriented nearly east-west, are drained by Chorro Creek and Los Osos Creek. The valleys
            empty into the most easterly portion of the estuary, with Chorro Creek terminating in a
            marsh delta within the tidelands, and Los Osos Creek ending in a tidal estuary.

            Morro Bay itself has developed as a result of the gradual inundation of the seaward ends
            of the two valleys by the rising post-Ice Age ocean, and therefore is a young geologic
            feature of less than 15,000 years in age. The rising sea also eroded coastal sands, and a
            barrier beach developed in front of the rising, eastward migrating beach system. The
            barrier beach, now known as the Morro Bay Sandspit, extends along the western edge of the
            estuary. Dunes migrate across the sand spit, which is about four miles long and about
            one-quarter of a mile in width. The spit is connected to the mainland only at its southern
            end, has no roads or off-road vehicle trails, and therefore has high value as animal and
            plant habitat. The entire sandspit-estuary complex lies at the center of the broader Estero
            Bay, that extends from Point Buchon in the south to Cayucos Point in the north.

            Estero Bay is a closed littoral cell, from which beach sand apparently does not escape.
            Large areas of older sand dunes cover much of the shoreline in the southern parts of Morro
            Bay. At the extreme northern end of the Bay, a channel runs between the end of the sand
            spit and the old volcanic plug of Morro Rock out to the ocean. The estuary extends
            southward from the entrance between the City of Morro Bay on the cast and the sand spit
            on the west. The northern portion of the estuary is about one-quarter of a mile wide. It is
            dominated by a dredged channel which is the main mooring area for vessels. About one
            mile south, the estuary widens to the east to a width of about three-quarters of a mile.
            Tidal dispersion has constructed two marshy islands in the middle of the estuary in this
            area. The southern portion of this part of the estuary is flanked to the east by Morro Bay
            State Park, where a generally natural shoreline has been preserved, including a major heron
            rookery.

            The bay widens to a maximum width of just over 1.5 miles at the tidal marsh and delta of
            Chorro Creek and the marsh of Los Osos Creek. This is the site of the greatest tideland loss
            to sedimentation. The delta and associated saltmarsh presently comprise about 400 acres.
            This area represents an increase of 200 acres since 1884 (Haltiner, 1988). The northwestern
            edge of the Chorro Creek delta has been dredged into a marina, and the Corps of Engineers
            maintains a dredged channel from near this point to the ocean. Tidal channels south of
            this point are not dredged.

            The bay extends south of the Los Osos Creek mouth for 1.75 miles. Baywood Point closes
            the width of the bay to three-quarters of a mile. South of the Point, the bay opens again to
            a mile in width. At the extreme southern end, a southwest trending shoreline narrows the
            bay to a tidal channel at Shark Inlet, hard against the sand spit.

            The southern portion of the bay is dominated by tidal mud flats of very fine sediment.
            Sedimentation on these flats threatens the estuarine environment of the bay. The tidal
            channels contain water at low tide, and provide food for the dense bird populations. The
            flats are ringed by a narrow zone of saltwater marsh, and above that lies a patchy











                                                             -10-

               freshwater marsh that is supplied by effluent groundwater. Fairly large patches of
               pickle weed-domi nated marsh occur on the edge of the sand spit, around Shark Inlet, at
               Cuesta-by-the-Sea, at Sweet Springs in Los Osos, and north and west of the Elfin forest.



                             NEED FOR A MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE FOR MORRO BAY

               Significant, unresolved land use planning issues are causing environmental problems in and
               around the bay. These problems include habitat loss, declining fishery resources, poor
               water quality and reduction of the volume of the bay due to sedimentation. The difficulty
               in effectively addressing these problems is compounded by the overlapping and sometimes
               conflicting governmental responsibilities in the Morro Bay watershed. The combination of
               environmental and institutional issues can be best addressed by the formal convening of a
               management conference which will lead to development and eventual implementation of a
               comprehensive conservation and management plan.


               Ouestions

               0       What is the importance of the estuary at Morro Bay on a local or regional scale?

                       The 2,300 acres that comprise Morro Bay contain the most significant wetland
                       system on the central coast. The estuary also serves an important nursery function
                       for many species of fish and invertebrates, including steelhead and halibut. Morro
                       Bay is unique in its retention of much of its ecological integrity in a coastline that
                       is increasingly overdeveloped. Beyond these resource values, the bay offers
                       residents and visitors outstanding scenic, aesthetic, scientific and recreational
                       values. It supports important commercial fishing, mariculture operations and a
                       thriving tourist industry.

               0       What are the major environmental problems facing the estuary?

                       Erosion in the watershed and sedimentation in the estuary are the greatest threats to
                       Morro Bay. The scientific community is in agreement that if sediment deposition in
                       the estuary continues at the present rate, the health, and indeed the very life of the
                       estuary is in severe jeopardy. Under normal conditions, an estuary and lagoon such
                       as Morro Bay, could have a life measured in the thousands of years (USDA/SCS,
                       1989a). However, if there is no abatement of sediment deliveries to the estuary, its
                       life expectancy is likely limited to some 300 years (Haltiner, 1988), with parts of the
                       southern section of the bay disappearing much sooner. The economic and
                       environmental impact of the death of the estuary would be severe.

                       In addition, development pressures in this region of the Central California coast are
                       great. Increasing population density and changing land use threaten water quality
                       and wildlife habitat. Urban runoff, discharge of sewage, and contamination by
                       pathogens and toxic substances are all potential problems for Morro Bay, as for most
                       estuaries. High coliform concentrations have been found in the Bay resulting in the
                       restriction of shellfish harvesting from time to time (Department of Health Services,
                       1985). For the most part these potential problems are not adequately understood.
                       With proper planning and monitoring, the impacts of development on Morro Bay can
                       be understood and solutions developed before the estuary becomes severely
                       impaired.











                                                       -11-


            0      What are the institutional arrangements for the watershed and how are they
                   working?

                   There are several city, County, State and Federal agencies with varied
                   responsibilities in the watershed. While there are on-going efforts to pull these
                   together, there is no single agency or management program to coordinate or to
                   formalize this effort.

            0      What is known about cause/effect relationships and how do you propose to better
                   identify the causes of environmental problems?

                   Recent studies have demonstrated that human activity and land use in the
                   watershed are related to sedimentation and loss of habitat in the bay, including
                   estuarine waters, which serve an important nursery function, and riparian habitats.
                   Inadequate waste treatment is known to periodically cause poor water quality. By
                   f ocusing interest on specif ic questions (such as f reshwater in-f lows, waste treatment,
                   species of concern, etc.), we will be able to avoid a crisis in Morro Bay and act to
                   prevent pollution and enhance the Bay.


            Economic Importance

            The Morro Bay estuary has tremendous value for not only local residents, but also for the
            entire state, and the nation. The estuary is used extensively on a year-round basis by both
            residents and visitors from all over the country. The small city of Morro Bay, as well as
            several of the adjacent communities, derive much of their economic livelihood from the
            estuary and the people that use it. Beaches, parks and wildlife sanctuaries; sport and
            recreational fishing facilities and related businesses; marinas and harbors; the extensive
            development of tourist uses, including restaurants, retail shops, and numerous motels; other
            bay-dependent commercial and industrial uses; scientific and educational research; and
            governmental services all bring income to the community. These uses depend upon
            long-term protection of the bay's scenic quality, wildlife resources and good water quality.


            Recreational Uses

            Beaches, Parks, and Wildlife Sanctuaries

            Morro Bay and Montana de Oro State Parks represent the second largest land use acreage
            next to agriculture in the watershed. State and city parks and beaches in the area include
            over 2250 acres within the city limits of Morro Bay. Morro Bay State Park, one of the
            oldest state parks, provides diverse recreational amenities including a golf course, a
            developed marina, a natural history museum, wetlands and open water, and a large
            intensively used campground with 130 campsites. This park is used year-round by 500,000
            visitors from throughout the state and nation who come to enjoy Morro Bay's pristine and
            scenic natural setting.

            The south and west shores of Morro Bay are bordered by Montana de Oro State Park. The
            westerly shore of the bay is formed by a sand dune complex that is one of the principle
            dune systems within the State of California. The extreme north portion of the estuary is
            bounded by Morro Rock and the Morro Strand State Beach, again under the supervision
            and management of the State Department of Parks and Recreation. Morro Rock is a
            spectacular 587-foot high volcanic plug, and the largest such feature on the entire
            California coastline. The rock itself is a significant visitor destination point and landmark
            that contributes to the unusual and spectacular setting for which the estuary is known.











                                                             _12-

               Wildlife resources also bring visitors to the area. The bay lands under the city's jurisdiction
               have been designated as a bird sanctuary, and portions of the state park systems are set
               aside as environmentally sensitive wildlife and plant habitats. The federally-listed rare
               and endangered peregrine falcon nests on Morro Rock. Due to the accessibility and
               proximity of a variety of habitats, the area is a popular destination point for bird
               watchers, botanists, nature photographers and duck hunters.

               Sport and Recreational Fishing

               Several commercial "party boats" sail from Morro Bay on a year-round basis. These boats
               operate from private wharfs within the city limits, fishing along the coast as well as within
               the bay. Their owners also operate fishing equipment supply outlets. Along with other
               recreational fishing pursuits, sport fishing is an important part of the local economy.
               These boats collectively generate between $1 million and $1.5 million per year in gross
               revenues and employ 65-70 employees during the summer and 30-35 employees during
               winter months.

               For the saltwater angler, year-round opportunities provide catches of lingcod, many
               rockfish species, and cabezon, along with seasonal catches of king salmon (February to
               November), albacore (September to November), and halibut (July to December). The
               combined recreational and commercial value to the area of local halibut averages $500,000
               yearly.

               Although clams are not nearly as prevalent as they once were, Morro Bay still maintains a
               variety of clams: gaper, Washington, littleneck and geoducks. Rock and dungeness crabs
               can also be found here seasonally by the resourceful fisherman, and ghost shrimp are
               harvested from the mudflats.


               Marinas and Harbors

               The central coastline of California from Monterey to Morro Bay represents one of the
               longest unprotected shorelines on the Pacific Coast. Morro Bay estuary is the location of a
               large year-round and all weather commercial and recreational boating harbor. The nearest
               such harbors are Monterey Bay, over 100 nautical miles to the north, and Santa Barbara,
               100 miles to the south. Because Morro Bay provides the only location within many miles to
               gain year-round boating access to the Pacific Ocean, it provides a critical resource to the
               commercial fishing and recreational boating industries.

               There is an extensive complex of private and public berthing facilities consisting both of
               docks and piers and fixed moorings within Morro Bay. The City Harbor Department
               manages approximately 450 berths or moorings. In addition, the state park marina at
               Morro Bay State Park provides recreational berthing for another 100 or more vessels. Piers
               or platforms extending from street ends into the bay are available for recreational fishing.
               There continues to be demand for berthing beyond the available supply. The city of Morro
               Bay is considering a private proposal to construct a 65-slip recreational boat marina in an
               area of potentia!lly sensitive wetlands resources.

               The rock revetment along the north shore of Morro Bay estuary is used extensively by sport
               fishermen and scuba divers. In the southern end of Morro Bay, many private homes have
               small docks or beaches from which small recreational craft are launched. A small dredged
               marina is located at Cuesta-by-the-Sea. In addition, several small beaches within the bay
               are sites for launching of small craft, including power boats, sailboats, canoes, kayaks,
               rafts, sailboards, and jet skis.











                                                        -13-


            Tourism

            Morro Bay, as one of the few relatively intact natural estuaries on the Pacific Coast,
            attracts an average of 4000 tourists daily, or 1.5 million annually to its environs. In fact,
            Morro Bay's economy is dominated by tourism and visitor-serving businesses, generating 37
            percent of all obs in the city and one-third of the city's general fund revenues. The motel
            industry contributes the majority of the City's tourism-generated revenues. There are 930
            motel rooms (42 motels) in the city of Morro Bay, representing 37 percent of all motel
            rooms on the north coast of San Luis Obispo County from Los Osos to San Simeon. Bed
            taxes were $845,000 in Fiscal Year 1988-1989. Several million tourists annually travel
            north and south on Highway One passing through the city of Morro Bay. Consequently, in
            addition to tourist and recreational visitation destined specifically for the bay, thousands
            of persons each year use the bay as they journey on Highway One. A primary attraction
            for this high level of tourism is the estuary and the scenic waterfront and surrounding
            watershed. The health of the estuary has been identified as critically important to the
            long-term tourist and economic life of the city.


            Commercial /Industrial Uses

            Commercial Fisheries

            As the area's only year-round all-wcather port, Morro Bay has long been important as a
            commercial fishing center. Indeed, the city of Morro Bay takes its very origins from the
            commercial fishing industry and is widely identified as a fishing community. Commercial
            fishing remains one of the area's chief economic activities. Fishing activities include hook
            and line fishing for rockfish, albacore and salmon, trawlers, gillnetters and trap fishermen.
            A recent economic study prepared by the city of Morro Bay indicated that commercial
            fishing and related support activities contributed significantly to the city's overall
            operating income.

            Shipping

            The Morro Bay harbor provides tugboats and support personnel for several off-shore oil
            transfer terminals in Estero Bay. These terminals include fuel delivery for the large
            Pacific, Gas and Electric (PG&E) steam generating plant at Morro Bay, on-loading facilities
            f or crude oil f rom Chevron's tank f arms at the north end of Estero Bay, and of f -loading of
            jet fuel for Lemoore Naval Air Station, located in the San Joaquin Valley. Morro Bay is
            the only harbor in the area capable of providing this service.

            Oil and Gas Development

            Morro Bay serves as the home port for an active off-shore construction company that
            primarily serves the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) oil industry. This business docks
            several ocean tugs in Morro Bay and a large construction barge. Future development of
            OCS lands in the region could potentially result in dramatic increases in related work in
            Morro Bay.

            Industrial Water Supply/Energy

            The mouth of Morro Bay is the site of one of the major steam electric generating plants on
            the Pacific Coast. Owned by the PG&E, the thermal plant at Morro Bay draws water
            directly from the estuary to cool its boilers. Heated water is discharged to the ocean just
            north of the estuary. The PG&E facility is the single largest industrial employer in Morro
            Bay and is a mainstay of the local economy, employing 130 people.











                                                               -14-


                Educational and Scientific Research

                There is increasing interest in the Morro Bay estuary as a site for educational and
                scientific research. The estuary contains large tracts of intertidal and marsh area and the
                area's ready accessibility provides an ideal location for both educational and scientific
                work. The Bay Foundation of Morro Bay (a spin-off of Morro Bay Task Force activities) is
                a private, non-profit, organization conducting research on the bay. A private foundation is
                currently pursuing plans to develop a research station on the shores of Morro Bay within
                the city limits. This facility would be open to the public, would provide a research
                function for studying the Bay's resources and have educational classrooms for use by area
                schools. The presence of Cal Poly University, San Luis Obispo, and their recently formed
                Coastal Resources Institute, underlines the importance of marine research and education at
                Morro Bay.

                Several other universities schedule regular field trips to Morro Bay, many students from
                the Central Valley come to the Kern County Environmental education camp, and the Morro
                Bay Natural History Museum serves 10,000 students, and a total of 79,000 visitors annually.

                Mariculture

                Morro Bay is the site of several mariculture operations, and this young industry is growing.
                Central and southerly portions of the estuary are used for oyster growing. Presently, 742
                acres of mudflats are leased for oyster and mussel growing. This enterprise is regulated by
                the State Department of Fish and Game. The shellfish harvested from these beds are sold
                to local markets and restaurants, as well as being shipped to other regions.

                Two companies are currently involved in abalone production in Morro Bay. One facility is
                aimed primarily at research and seed development, using seawater pumped from the bay
                and recirculated through their facility, while the other is developing large grow-out
                facilities on property leased from the PG&E plant. Because of the size of this latter
                facility, it is expected to contribute important economic benefits to the local area. The
                available sites on the shores of Morro Bay where clean seawater can be extracted and then
                returned provide an ideal operating environment for these activities. Maintenance of high
                water quality in the estuary is vital to ongoing mariculture operations.


                Livine Resources

                Virtually every remaining coastal wetland is unique in its combination of wildlife
                resources and natural attractions (California Department of Fish and Game, 1972). The
                uniqueness of the biotic resources and the scenic attraction of Morro Bay and its wetlands
                are enhanced by its relative natural state and geographic location. As the "most significant
                wetland system in the central coast" (Arnold, 1987) of California, it is of vital importance
                to a great variety of migratory and resident species, including many rare and endangered
                species.

                Just as the combination of scenic quality, access to diverse recreational opportunities and a
                wide selection of visitor services act to attract human visitors and residents, it is the
                proximity and diversity of interconnected ecosystems (nearshore reefs, sandy beaches,
                dunes, bay, mudflat, riparian, upland and Morro habitats) which make Morro Bay and
                watershed a vital wildlife habitat. Such diverse resources (Table 2) in a small area produce
                an unusual richness of species diversity and high population numbers for some species,
                especially during winter months. The high percentage of publicly-owned lands in and
                adjacent to the bay help to maintain the integrity of many environmentally sensitive areas,
                including habitats of rare species, but other factors outside these lands continue to threaten
                that integrity.











             The many habitats of Morro Bay can be largely differentiated by their exposure to salt
             water and characterized by their dominant plant species. Scientists generally delineate
             three estuarine zones: marine, that area continually under water; 11@ttoral, that area subject
             to tidal influence; and-maritime
                                             , that area between the upper edge of the littoral zone and
             the upland vegetation (Gerdes et al., 1974).

             The nearshore and pelagic marine area outside the bay is important to note because the
             quality of that environment and the numbers and types of species affect the fish, bird and
             marine mammal populations which use the bay. Fifty-eight important fish species (Figure
             2) were listed in the area by California Fish and Game (Blunt, 1980). More than 15 species
             of fish are known to spawn in the bay (Fierstine, ct al., 1973). The presence of both rocky
             and sandy bottom habitats off-shore increases the species diversity within the bay.

             The zonation of estuary vegetation (Figure 3) reveals areas of bare mud. Mud flats are
             rich in organic matter and provide habitat for large numbers of invertebrate species such
             as crabs, clams, snails and worms. These areas are favored by harbor seals, shorebirds, bird
             watchers, and shellfishermen. Eelgrass is a very valuable resource as a primary food source
             for wintering brant and is important for many other species in the bay. Eelgrass currently
             covers 723 acres (Josselyn et al., 1989) within the marine and lower littoral zones of the
             bay.

             The freshwater discharged from the Los Osos and Chorro Creeks into the estuary transports
             nutrients that serve as an important food source for the whole bay complex. Additionally,
             this freshwater prevents the bay's salinity from exceeding the tolerance level of many
             estuarine species.

             Riparian thickets of arroyo willow, blackberry and poison oak occur around Los Osos and
             Chorro Creeks. This riparian area is important for bird nesting. Some exotic species, most
             notably German ivy, have invaded riparian and freshwater wetlands.

             The maritime zone borders almost all of the bay except the developed harbor. It is
             composed of grassland or coastal scrub. Sea blite, statice, salt-wort, and annual saltbush.
             Shrubs on the dunes are dominated by silvery lupine, mock heather, and coyotebrush, while
             sand verbena, beach primrose, live-forever, and sea rocket, colonize the dunes. Several
             dune plants are listed by the California Plant Society as plants of special concern.
             Maritime habitats furnish important escape, nesting and resting cover for many estuarine
             birds and mammals (Gerdes et al., 1974), most notably the rare Morro Bay kangaroo rat.

             Upland vegetation around the Los Osos area is primarily coastal sage (black sage, bush
             lupine, buckwheat and deer weed) interspersed with residential areas and some oak
             woodlands. The soil conditions produce twisted coastal live oak such as in Los Osos Oaks
             Reserve or "Elfin Forests" of stunted, wind-pruned trees on ancient dunes near the bay.
             Grass lands of non-native species are grazed in the watershed; however, a few native grass-
             lands (ajipA) are still found in the watershed area on park land (California Natural
             Diversity Data Base, 1988). Chaparral (California sage, black sage, and manzanita) and oak
             woodland are found on the Morros in the upper watershed. These undisturbed areas are
             valuable habitat for some rare manzanita species and many species of special concern to
             California Fish and Game, such as golden eagles and peregrine falcon.

             Agricultural land in the watershed is a mix of irrigated and dry farm croplands in the low
             lands and grazing on the hilly and lower mountainous areas. It is the complex interaction
             of these marine, estuarine and upland plant communities that provide feeding, resting and
             nursery areas for thousands of migratory birds as well as fish and marine mammals.
             Migratory birds use Morro Bay as a site to feed and rest during fall and spring migration
             or as wintering habitat. The U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service Migratory Bird List contains
             44 coastal, pelagic and shoreline species; 30 waterfowl species; and 200 upland migratory
             bird species.











                                                   -16-













                 Table 2. Habitat Distributions of the Morro Bay Watershed



                  Ocean Front                                              4 miles

                  Marine

                        Harbor Entrance & Natural Channels                 6+ miles

                  Littoral
                        Open.Water at High Tide                            2,300 acres
                        Mud Flats                                                  acres
                        Eelgrass                                              723 acres

                        Saltmarsh Pickleweed                                  472 acres
                        Oyster Leases                                         742 acres

                  Maritime
                        @andspit and Dunes                                    735 acres
                  Riparian & Upland
                        Riparian Woodlands     within the State Park           82 acres

                        Willow Thicket within the State Park                   27 acres



                  Total Watershed                                         48,000 acres

                  Total Wetlands                                           21,500 acre5



                     The habitat descriptions are not mutually exclusive,
                     therefore areas can't be added to arrive at the totals.












                                                         -17-



            The abundance and diversity of bird species alone is a good indication of the quality and
            quantity of food and resting habitat around the bay. Audubon Society's Christmas counts
            record Morro Bay as consistently among the top 15 spots out of 963 sites nationwide for
            diversity of winter bird species, with around 200 species and over 50,000 individual birds
            censused in a single day in December (Persons, pers. comm.). The Morro Bay area is
            considered to be one of the most important stop-over points on the Pacific Flyway in the
            central and south coast (Arnold, 1987).

            In winter, shorebirds are more abundant than any other group of birds with marbled
            godwits, willets and sandpipers being most numerous. Waterfowl are second in abundance
            in Morro Bay during their annual migration: brant, a goose hunted in the bay, is most
            numerous, followed by pintail, green-wing teal, scaup and widgeon. Wading birds, such as
            great blue herons, black-crowned night herons and egrets use the area year-round. A heron
            rookery, active since 1948, is on Fairbanks Point in Morro Bay State Park (Gerdes et al.,
            1974).

            More than 70 fish species (including one candidate for endangered species status, the
            tidewater goby) have been collected in the bay (Fierstine, Kline and Garman, 1973). The
            role of the estuary as a fish nursery is significant to the coastal sport and commercial
            fishery. The bay is also an important migration route and nursery for steelhead trout
            which utilize the tributary streams.

            Invertebrate populations are large and diverse (Figure 2). Shellfish are important in the
            bay where 19 species can be collected. The most common species are Washington, gaper and
            geoduck clams.


            Areas of Bioloelcal Importance

            Environmentally sensitive habitat areas within the Coastal Zone warrant specific
            protection under the California Coastal Act if they meet these criteria: 1) unique, rare or
            fragile community; 2) rare and endangered species habitat; 3) specialized wildlife habitat
            vital to a species survival; 4) outstanding representative natural community with an
            unusual variety of plant or animal species; or 5) areas with outstanding educational values
            to be protected for scientific research and education uses (Morro Bay City Coastal Land
            Use Plan, 1982). The area contains a large number of environmentally sensitive habitat
            areas.


            Table 3 lists areas of special biological importance which have been identified or are
            recommended by various agencies for special protection (e.g., San Luis Obispo County,
            Local Coastal Plan). Category numbers in Table 3 refer to the criteria listed in the
            previous paragraph. Unique, fragile or rare community types are represented in many
            public lands such as Morro Bay Sandspit, Los Osos Oaks, and Elfin Forest. Rare and
            endangered species are protected at Morro Rock, Morro Dunes and Sweet Springs. Special-
            ized wildlife habitat is preserved at the Heron Rookery, Chorro Creek Steelhead Trout
            protected area, and a number of Monarch Butterfly roosts which are not already protected
            (Nagano and Lane, 1985). Outstanding representatives of natural communities are included
            within the diverse habitats of Morro Bay State Park, Black Hill and the Sandspit. Areas of
            educational value are Morro Bay State Park including the heron rookery and Los Osos Oaks
            State Reserve. All of these areas are visited regularly by school groups and the public.

            Areas recommended for future protection include more Elfin Forest land adjoining the
            recently acquired 51 acres. Warden and Eto Lakes were listed for preservation as
            important freshwater marsh habitat by the California Coastal Commission in 1975.
            Natural preserve status has been suggested for the Sandspit (CPR, 1988).













                                                                  Adapted from:                Blunt, C.E. 1980. Atlas of California Coastal
                                                                                               Marine Resources. -State Fish & Game. 134 pages.



                                                                                                                                                                                    ft", rT 110TTOIll YAUKA




                                                                                                                           C

                                                                                                                           0..... 1.1t.0


                                                                                                                                                                           K..9



                                                                                                                              3

                                                                                                                           3-4 3
                                                                                                                        0  IF -,  ":.
                                                                                                                           '_9-4                                          3-6.d 3.110.1.1
                                                                                                                           P
                                                                                                                                                                          r


                                                                            ,rA,lg,, 1,11 A! .... ......



                                                                            C.-o.

                                                                                  '3
                                                                            3_1       o IF                                 FlAnIc P12H IS     ......  It, P--
                                                                                              3c.t.,                                                                                  I A N 0 2 0 T T@

                                                                                                                                                                               2,:::,o $."9 c.
                                                                                                                                                                                         3 . 1: .1.
                                                                                                                           P 111.
                                                                                                                           P:c0o.c
                                                                                                                           P-1 It.  3..,,                                      C."I.I...
                                                                                                                                                                               0..Mc 3..60..
                                                                                                                                                                               3t."T Flo,
                                                                                                                           31 ......d


                                             LLJ
                                                           co                                 M OR R 0                                                                                t" T.r -1
                                                                                              BAY                                                                          C":-
                                                                                                                                                                         P-1111        "I fV11181*17 ClIt-801
                                                                                                                                                                                          C'




                                                                     z
                                                                                                                                                                       C.      C'
                                                           Lj                                                                                    C"  00?,9
                                                                                                                                                C
                                                                  .c                                                                                                       @Alo
                                                           LLJ


                                                                                                                                                                               CQJI.Qhl Fl." IN THE MAY
                                                                                         MORRO
                                              (L
                                                                                          BAY                                                                                     3......  3.,f"
                                                  kl_QqQ RFACM

                                                                                                                                                                                  C
                                                                                                                                                                                               10.
                                                  3-
                                                  .. . @ _%c *0, . . .                                                                                                            31.117 11-0.1
                                                  W.'t. W..Q $Col.,                                                                                                            COM1.0i....     Flo#
                                                                                                     r
                                                                                              G                                                                                   G1.1 3-f.h.."d


                                                                                                                                                                                     11.4
                                                                                                                                                                                     1: @ c. ...I      y
                                                                                                                  BAYWOOD                                                         koC IF-% A.Cft@l
                                                                                                                    PARK                                                                   131*2 " *1
                                                                                              IC,
                                                                                                                                                    4C                                        N@
                                                                                                                                                         O'S'.                       a          MILES         I
                                                                                               CU STA BY THE SEA                                            0s,                      6KILOMETElt i
                                                                                                                           LOS OSOS


                                       Ficlurc 2. Nbrine Rcsourccs of N40rro Bay











                                                                                                               .19-




                                                                                  MORRO                               BAY                  HABITATS

                                                                             -77-'
                                                                                                                                                             State fish             Game. 1974.
                                                                                                                                            Source:
                                                                                                                                                             The Natural Resources of                         lt_@,
                                                                                                             7                                               Morro Bay. Coastal Wetland
                                                                                                                                                             Report 08. 103+ pages.
                                                                                                                                                                                             q-U,
                                                                                                             I T'
                                                                                                 1Y,
                                                                                                                                                             !A_



                                                                                                 -7                                                                                 1 tl A
                                                                                                                              '511  Rn @rPIY                                          @Ae    WAS r@.

                                                                                                                                           Al%h
                                                                                                                        Zr
                                                                                                      Sao



                                                                                                               r

                                                                                                                                                                                                              M






                                                                                                                                                                 _'7


                                                                                                                               V


                                                                                                                                                                  tj                                         5a


                                                                                                                                              DGD:-_PW
                                                                                                                                                                                                        Om

                                                                                                                     w.
                                                                                                                                                                                                 Aw
                                                                                                                                                           let
                                                                                                                                                                   -421@
                                                                                                                                                               IF

                                                                                                                                         X
                                                                                                                                 LEGEN

                                                                                                                                                                       X
                                                                                                                                  mud     Flats
                                                                                                                                                                          it   M
                                                                                                                                                                         ;.A.          @ -:@-
                                                                                                                                 Salt    Marsh
                                                                                                                     =-Sand
                                                                                                                                        Dunes

                                                                                                                                 Dune   Ve tation
                                                                                                                                            ge

                                                                                                                           W-Channel Depths

                                                                                                                             -Dr
                                                                                                                                   edged Channel


                                            Figure 3.            Morro Bay              Habitats











                                                              -20-




                Reeionally Important Rare and Endangered Species

                The California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) (Natural Diversity Database, 1986)
                refers to "Special Animals" which are inventoried because they are officially listed or they
                are candidates for listing by State or Federal government. The animal may be recognized
                as a sensitive species in California by the USFWS, U.S. Forest Service or the Bureau of
                Land Management, or recognized as a species of special concern by DFG. Taxa which are
                declining, biologically rare or very restricted, or those associated with a habitat in decline
                in California, (such as wetlands or riparian) are also so designated. A listing of "Special
                Animals" is found in Table 4 which includes some already listed in "Threatened and
                Endangered Species" (refer to Table 1).

                Those species in decline due to alteration or loss of habitat in the estuary are the
                California black rail and snowy plover. The shy,.secretive black rail is protected by
                California threatened status but its population and distribution in Morro Bay is virtually
                unknown. Projects potentially impacting the habitat (e.g., Twin Bridges replacement, Los
                Osos wastewater treatment system) continue to be approved despite lack of knowledge
                about this species. The narrow habitat requirements of the black rail suggest that less than
                10 percent of the 575 acres of salt marsh is suitable rail breeding habitat (Evens et al.,
                1986).

                The snowy plover's required nesting area is on the sandy beach which is heavily impacted
                by recreational use. Birds have been concentrating their nests in less optimal portions of
                the beach. Predation is a big factor in high mortality rates. In 1989, only one-third of the
                nests were successful at hatching at least one egg.

                Brant winter only in San Diego Bay, Morro Bay and northern estuaries. It is a population
                in decline in California and is dependent upon eelgrass (Gerdes et al., 1974). Seventy-six
                percent of the brant wintering on the southern California coast occur in Morro Bay
                (Josselyn et al., 1989). Numbers have dropped from 11,000 to a low of 1,000.

                Herons and egrets are numerous in Morro Bay but the heron rookery, used continuously
                since 1948, in Morro Bay State Park has been declining as a nesting spot in recent years.

                Anadramous fish, such as the steelhead trout migrate from coastal streams to the ocean and
                back to the same stream to spawn. The Chorro and Los Osos Creeks are spawning streams.
                Water diversion projects, drought and siltation upstream are reducing the viability of local
                steelhead populations.

                Endangered plant species (Table 1) were identified by the California Native Plant Society
                (CNPS) in terms of limited distribution and rarity. Some of those species which are of
                concern (but are without state or federal status) are found on the dunes (dune dandelion,
                dune mint, Blochman's leafy daisy, coastal gumplant, and sand almond (CPR, 1988)). Also
                being considered for protection is seepweed which has the same narrow range and scattered
                populations as salt marsh bird's beak. Pecho manzanita is limited in distribution and is on
                the CNPS watch list.


                Marine Mammals

                The Morro Bay estuary provides shelter or habitat for at least four species of fur-bearing
                marine mammals found along the California coast: harbor seals, California sea lions,
                elephant seals, and sea otters. Of these four species, harbor seals and sea otters are the
                most reliant on a healthy estuarine environment for their existence. While sea lions and,
                less frequently, elephant seals visit the estuary and probably feed in and around it, they
                usually only use the bay for hauling-out in times of stress (injury, illness, low offshore











                                                     -21-















          Table 3. Areas of Special Biological Importance


                Area                                     Jurisdiction                     Category

          Black Hill Natural Area                        State Parks & Recreation         2,4
          Elfin Forest (Otto Property)                   State  Parks & Recreation        1
          Heron Rookery - Natural Preserve               State  Parks & Recreation        3,5
          Los Osos Oaks State Reserve                    State  Parks & Recreation        1,5
          Los Osos Creek Mouth                           State  Lands Commission          2,5
          Morro Bay Sand Spit - Natural Reserve          State  Parks & Recreation        1,4
          Morro Bay State Park                           State  Parks & Recreation        3,4,5
          Morro Dunes Ecological Reserve                 State  Fish  & Game              2

          Morro Rock State Reserve                       State  Parks & Recreation        2

          Morros                                         Private                          1

          Sweet Springs Marsh                            Morro Coast Audubon Society      1,2
          Wardon & Eto Lakes                             Private                          1

          Monarch Butterfly wintering areas              Private                          3
          Chorro Creek                                   State Fish & Game                3





          Category:   I=unique, rare or fragile community
                      2=rare or endangered species habitat
                      3=specialized wildlife habitat vital to a species survival
                      4=outstanding representative natural community with an unusual
                        variety of plant or animal species
                      S=areas with outstanding educational values to be protected for
                        scientific research and educational uses





							-22-


Table 4 Special Animals Found in the Morro Bay Area



	Species									Status	Habitat

Banded Dune Snail Helminthoglpta walkeriana				1		MT
Calif.  Brackishwater Snail, Tyronia imitator				2		L
Monarch Butterfly, Danaus plexippus						0		U
Morro Blue, Plebjus icariodides moroensis					2		U
Tidewater Goby eucycloglobius newberri					CSC,2		L
Redlegged Frong, Rana aurora draytonia					CSC,2		R
Western Pond Turtle, Clemmys marmorata					CSC,2		R
Black Legless Lizard, Anniella pulchra nigra				CSC,2		MT
Western Grebe, Aechmophorus occidentalis					0		M
American white Pelican, Pelecanus erythrorhyncos			CSC		M
California Brown Pelican, Pelecanus occidentalis californicus	CE,CP,FE	M
Double-crested Cormorant, Phalacrocorax auritus				CSC		M
Great Blue Heron, Ardea herodias						0		L,MT
Great Egret Casmerodius albus							0		L,MT
Snowy Egret, Egretta thula							0		L,MT
Black-crowned Nigh Heron, Nycticorax nycticorax				0		L,MT
Cooper's Hawk, Accipter cooperii						CSC		R,V
Sharp-shinned Hawk, Accipter striatus					CSC		R,V
Golden Eagle, Aquila chrysaetos						CP,CSC	U
Northern harrier, Circus cyaneus						CSC		U
Black-shouldered Kite, Elanus caerulea					CP		U
Merlin, Falco columbarius							CSC		MT
Prairie Falcon, Falco mexicanus						CSC		U
American Peregrine Falcon, Falco peregrinus anatum			CE,CP,FE	MT
California Black Rail, laterallus jamaicensis coturniculus		CT,CP,2	L
Snowy Plover, Charadrius alexandrinus					CSC,2		L
California Gull, Larus californicus						CSC		M
Caspian Tern, Sterna caspia							0		M
Elegant Tern, Sterna elegans							CSC		M
Marbled murrelet, Brachyramphus marmoratus				CSC		P
Rhinoceros Auklet, Cerorhinca moncerata					CSC		P
Western Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Coccyzus americanus occidentalis	CT,2		R
Short-eared Owl, Asio flammeus						CSC		U
Burrowing Owl, Athene cunicularia						CSC		U
Calif.  Black-tailed Gnatcatcher, Polioptila melanura california	CSC,2		R
Morro Bay Kangaroo Rat, Dipodomys heermanni morroensis		CE,CP,FE	MT,U
Southern Sea Otter, Enhydra lutris nereis					CP, FT	M
American Badger, Taxidea taxus						CSC		U
Steelhead Trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss					LC		R
Brant, Branta bernicla nigricans						LC		M,L
Harbor Seal, Phoca vitulina							LC		M

Status:	0 = Special animal		CT= California Threatened	FE= Federally Endangered
		1 = Federal Candidate 1		CE= California Endangered	FT= Federally Threatened
		2 = Federal Candidate 2	     CSC= California Species of	LC= Local Concern
		CP= California Protected		Special Concern

Habitat:  P = Pelagic		L = Littoral	R = Riparian
	    M = Marine	     MT = Maritime	U = Uplands




	










                                                       -23-



            food stocks). Accordingly, this section will focus on harbor seals and sea otters. Also,
            while cetaceans (whales, dolphins, porpoises) have been sighted within the bay, they are
            even less common than sea lions and elephant seals and are not included in this discussion.


            Harbor Seals

            The local office of the California Department of Fish and Game has made periodic counts
            and observations of harbor seals in Morro Bay, (Laurent, pers. comm.). They have
            identified at least three major haul-out areas on the mudflats in the southern bay. It is
            unusual not to observe harbor seals on one or more of the areas during low-tide periods,
            but the highest numbers and frequency of harbor seal sightings occur during the late
            spring pupping period. Over 50 harbor seals, mostly mothers and pups, have been counted
            at one time in the major haul-out area of the estuary. Because of the safety provided to
            harbor seals by the deeper channels which create mudflat "islands," and possibly because
            fish are easily available as forage to the seals, the estuary is an important habitat for this
            species.

            Sea Otters

            The sea otter in California is a "threatened" species under the U.S. Endangered Species Act
            of 1973 and a "depleted" species under the U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972.
            Sea otters in California currently range from northern Santa Cruz County to northern
            Santa Barbara County and number about 2000 individuals. The Estero Bay area was
            re-occupied by sea otters from the north in about 1972, but they did not enter Morro Bay in
            appreciable numbers until about 1982. Populations vary seasonally, with 20-60 sea otters in
            Morro Bay, principally during the winter (Figure 4). About 99 percent of the sightings in
            the bay are of males. While in Morro Bay, it is estimated that the sea otters spend about 62
            percent of their daylight hours resting, 21 percent feeding, 8 percent grooming, 5 percent
            interacting socially, and 4 percent swimming. Over 90 percent of their diet while in the
            bay is composed of clams, mainly gaper and Washington clams. During the summer, it is
            known that several of the Morro Bay sea otters establish breeding territories north of
            Estero Bay; one individual moved nearly 70 km north of Morro Bay to Point San Martin. It
            is essential that the features that support the sea otters (especially their prey) be protected
            because Morro Bay is important habitat for sea otters.


            Environmental Problems and Cause/Effect Relationshins

            Morro Bay is a relatively pristine estuary threatened by development pressures and
            changing land uses. There are several sources of pollutants which are known and others
            are likely but presently undocumented. To date, most of these sources have been identified
            as non-point sources of pollution. Point sources likely exist, but only limited
            documentation is available presently (State Water Resources Control Board, 1988). The
            following discussion identifies some of the known and suspected problems.

            Habitat Loss

            While to the untrained eye, there are few visible signs of erosion and sediment problems in
            the watershed, this is the major identified threat to the estuary. Few gullies are visible
            from public roads. Agricultural practices and rainfall patterns do not always present
            visible evidence of sheet and rill erosion on most cropland. The rates of erosion, with the
            exception of road and streambank erosion, are usually too small to be perceived and may
            not be excessive for many individual sites. It is,however, the cumulative effect from all
            43,000 acres in the watershed which impact the bay (USDA/SCS, 1989b). Impacts are
            documented in reduction of open water (Figure 5) and of the major loss in tidal prism
            (Figure 6). The estuary has lost 25-30 percent of its volume in the past 100 years, with
            35-40 percent of the deeper portions (Haltiner, 1988).











                                                             -24-


               The rate of sediment delivery to Morro Bay from the watershed has increased since 1700.
               This increase is probably due to: 1) changes in land use resulting in more sediment
               becoming available for movement into the bay, and 2) depositional areas for sediment on
               the valley floor no longer being available due to increased creek depth or levee
               development. The rate of sediment delivery to Morro Bay has been approximately 45,000
               cubic yards per year between 1890 and 1935, approximately 37,000 cubic yards per year
               between 1935 and 1986 (Haltiner, 1988). These estimates are from the comparison of four
               bathymetric surveys since the 1890's. Table 5 demonstrates the net loss of area in all
               shallow water areas of the bay since 1884.

               An erosion and sediment study in the Morro Bay watershed (USDA/SCS, 1989a) identified
               sources of sediment to the bay. This sediment begins either as sheet and rill erosion or as
               erosion from gullies, roadbanks, and streambanks. All of this sediment does not
               immediately reach the bay. The present rate of sediment production is estimated to be 50
               percent greater than during the 1700's. The estimated quantity of sediment delivered to
               Morro Bay is currently 45,500 tons per year (USDA/SCS, 1989a). This is an average value:
               in reality, pulses of sediment are delivered by large storm events.

               Another study showed that, between the turn of the century and 1965, the pickleweed delta
               of the marsh increased in size by over 50 percent (Figure 5), again due to sedimentation
               from upstream sources (Gerdes et al., 1974). This same delta appears to be making another
               "push" into the estuary on the bordering mudflats, which have apparently reached the
               critical level for pickleweed invasion (Laurent, DFG, pers. comm, 1989). These studies and
               observations demonstrate that the estuarine habitat is disappearing at a quick pace,
               measurable in decades rather than centuries or millennia.

               The increase in sediment delivery to Morro Bay from natural and man-affected sources has
               increased the rate of change from estuarine to upland habitat (Figure 5). Should present
               conditions continue, the presence of open water in the non-dredged areas of Morro Bay is
               estimated to end in 300 years (Haltiner, 1988). Parts of the back bay have disappeared in
               recent generations and this process continues at a rapid rate.

               Seasonal runoff of freshwater produces measurable turbidity in mid-estuary zones
               (eelgrass), the time duration of which is significantly longer than is the case in a simple
               flow system like a mature river (Phillips, 1984). Extensive land cultivation leading to
               siltation and the associated increase in turbidity leads to decreased eelgrass growth.
               Desiccation through increased sediment accumulation has been given as the major factor
               limiting the upper intertidal distribution of eelgrass. If eelgrass declines enough, increased
               erosion of bottom sediments could occur, diminishing the potential for eelgrass recovery.
               There appears to be no species succession in the eelgrass stage of the ecosystem. Eelgrass is
               the initial colonizer as well as the climax stage of development (Phillips, 1984).

               The ability of eelgrass to exert a major influence on estuaries is due in large part to its
               rapid growth and high net productivity. Eelgrass stabilizes sediments in two ways. Leaves
               slow and retard current flow, reducing water velocity near the scdiment/water interface
               which promotes the sedimentation of particles and inhibits the resuspension of organic and
               inorganic material. Secondly, rhizomes and roots form an interlocking matrix which bonds
               sediment and retards erosion. The disappearance of eelgrass from an area leads to
               increased sediment grain size,- water chemistry changes and increased circulation patterns
               and turbidity as well as significant changes in species composition, which in turn leads to
               an expansion of the salt marsh.

               The salt marsh, while increasing in area, does so at the expense of the eelgrass beds and
               deep water zones. Once established, salt marsh plant populations may persist or decline
               depending on environmental conditions. With increased sedimentation, freshwater
               influence increases over tidal cycles and saltwater marsh vascular plants become dominated
               by lower-salinity tolerant species. Overall productivity will be greatly reduced in the
               estuary as this zone expands (USDA/SCS, 1989b).











                                                       -25-













               30







               25






            3:
            U  20
            w








            0
            41

            0

            cz
            0



            0














                          nov   dec    i an  feb  mar    apy may       n jul   aug  sen   Oct    nov
                          186   186    187   187   187    187  181    87 187   187   137  187    187


            FigurC 4. NN"cekl,,: Mean Sea Otter Counts, Morro Bay, 1987-1988










                                                         -26-







                                                                    locx
                                   MARSH

                                                                                     KU.1&rr, b AT
                               EXPANSION
                                                                                 @n
                                                                                                   C",




                                                                ESTER 0


                                                                                  r0:11T


                                MORRO BAY
                                                                             X ORR 0f 4
                                       1897










                         NOW


                                                                 C@

                                                    >


                                                                      74                 -Q27-
                       fsTflfo
                        9.47
                                                                      ge
                                                           .;.' .7

                                                                                              5 4 T@UZAMV
                                                                      M7
                                                           -j
                                                                                    SCALE FOR BOTH MAPS





                                     A'OSRO S.4t
                                                                                  M
                                                                                     ORRO BAY

                                                              Y.
                                                                                        1965

                                                                           Source: Gerdes, G., E. Primbs &
                                                                                   B. RTownin, 1974. Nat.
                                                                                             -o Bav     r
                                                                                   Res. of Mor.    -Thei
                                                                                             Future. Cal.
                                                                                   Status and
                                       UESWITA      -,S4;rx
                                                                                   Fish  Game. 103n.
                                                    ffi


                      Figurc 5. Marsh Expansion,   1897-1965










                                                MEAN TIDAL PRISM VS. ",(EAR
                                                MORRO BAY, CALIFORNIA
                                                              1884-1987

                               7000-







                               6500-
                           u

                                                                                                                                                                                               73

                           Fr  6000-


                           0
                               .5500-

                           z

                           L


                               5000- fill 11 III-TTTT" II 11IM111111111111 11 111                TTT
                                    1875                     1900                      1925                     1950                      1975                     2000
                                                                                                   YEAR

                    Figure 6. Mcan Tidal Prism vs. Ycar, Morro Bay, CA 1887-1987
                    Swirce: 11n1tiner, J. Sedimentation processes in @Iorro Bay, California.
                                 Philip Williams and Associates, Sin Francisco. 9,1+ pages.




















          TabIc S. Depth to Arca Data for Morro Bay, 1887-1987





           DATE         4-2.0     +1.0      +0.0      -1.0     -2.0       -3.0     -4.0    -5.0



           1684         2240       NA       1985      1697     1255       955       592      255


           1919         2155       ??A      1743      1455     1047       780       350      249


           1935         2158      2001      1733      1423       907      673       267      221


           1967         1891      1005      1521      1155       629      361       315      287


          .Net          -349       IIA      -464      -542     -626       -594     -277      +32
            Change
              (acres)



           Source: Josselyn, M., M. Martindale F; J; Callaway. 1989.  Biological Resources of Morro
                    Bay as Impacted by Watershed Development in Los Osos and Chorro Creek Watersheds.
                    State Coastal Conservancy. 35+pages.











                                                         -29-




            The "Morro Bay Watershed Enhancement Plan" (USDA/SCS, 1989b) identifies and discusses
            proposed land treatment and structural measures to reduce sediment deposition as well as
            their relative economic feasibility and local acceptability. Selected measures were assessed
            on the basis of their cost-effectiveness and technical adequacy in reducing sediment yield.
            Eight groups of measures were evaluated. These included measures for roads, brush land,
            gully control, riparian management, rangeland, small pastures, conservation cropping, and
            urban areas. Sediment control structures were also evaluated. Funding to implement the
            Phase I recommendations in the Watershed Enhancement Plan has been approved by the
            California Coastal Conservancy and the EPA and the project got underway during August
            1990.


            Nutrients

            The sediment from agricultural land contains significant amounts of nitrogen and
            phosphorus as well as organic matter. As sediment enters the estuary from agricultural
            sources, some nutrient additions are inevitable. Previous studies (Soil and Water
            Conservation Society, 1985) in other watersheds are available; however, no published data
            are available for agricultural nutrient additions to the Morro Bay estuary. The effects on
            the estuary as a result of nutrient additions include increased vegetative growth that can
            periodically reduce the oxygen content of water. The reduced oxygen contents can
            adversely affect the growth and reproductive abilities of aerobic/aquatic organisms. The
            problems may increase as grazing lands are converted to higher intensity agriculture, and
            in sections of the watershed, to horse operations and residential parcels. The chaparral on
            the upper elevation grazing land is prone to periodic wild fire, yielding higher nitrate and
            sediment loadings to the estuary. There has been a proposal to convert some portion of the
            Chorro Creek watershed into a regional sanitary landfill.

            Nutrient-containing organic matter from roadsides and lawns will seasonally runoff into
            the estuary during high rainfall events (Department of Health Services, 1985). The major
            contributing areas are the city of Morro Bay and the margin of Los Osos, including
            Baywood Park and Cuesta-by-the-Sea. Additionally, fertilizer nutrients applied to
            landscape vegetation may either runoff with sediment or leach into groundwater. Nitrate
            contamination of groundwater in Los Osos has been linked to septic tank effluent and
            fertilizer (Brown and Caldwell, 1984). Some of this contaminated groundwater may seep
            into the estuary via freshwater springs. The pattern of this pollution will change when
            sewers are eventually installed in the Los Osos area.

            In recent years, biologists have noted a significant change in algae populations within the
            estuary. Mats of Enteromoryha have covered mudflats, potentially choking out the mud
            dwelling invertebrate populations. Excessive algae growth is usually attributed to high
            nutrient loadings.

            Bacteria

            The presence of bacterial contamination in the estuary has threatened shellfish operations.
            The bay's tidal exchanges, with an estimated 2.2 billion gallons entering the bay on an
            average tidal cycle, supply nutrients and remove contaminants to aid the oyster growing
            process. However, the oysters have been frequently contaminated by bacteria so that
            harvesting has been restricted (Department of Health Services, 1985).

            Along the city bayfront, high coliform counts were found both in summer and winter near
            locations discharging significant amounts of contaminated water. In the back bay, summer
            sampling revealed intermittent peaks of coliform contamination with consistently higher
            counts at drainageways by Broderson and Pecho Roads. Winter sampling results confirmed












                                                          -30-

               this trend and showed high results at other South Bay stations, especially near Baywood
               Park pier (Anthony et al., 1988).

               Some have suggested this problem started in 1983 when the Morro Bay-Cayucos Wastewater
               Treatment Plant (WWTP) began discharging unchlorinated wastewater to the ocean via an
               extended outfall stretching 4060 feet offshore just north of the estuary entrance
               (Department of Health Services, 1985). There was a major spill of untreated sewage into
               Chorro Creek on September 23, 1990 at Camp San Luis. Sewage spills from the California
               Men's Colony Wastewater Treatment Plant in the Chorro Creek watershed could
               contaminate estuary waters (Department of Health Services, 1985).


               Heavy Metal and Toxic Hydrocarbons

               The Los Osos Landfill in the Los Osos Creek watershed was, until early 1988, the waste
               dump for residential wastes, toxic materials including motor oil, pesticide containers,
               lubricants, and other domestic pollutants. Recent studies (Engineering Science, 1987) show
               low level hydrocarbon contamination in two wells adjacent to the landfill.

               The initial round of quarterly sampling of the shallow groundwater aquifer showed only
               trace amounts (60 ppb) of landfill generated constituents, most notably vinyl chloride, PCE,
               and DCE. These low concentrations were anticipated due to the absence of liquid wastes in
               the site and the dry climate. These trace concentrations of organic constituents are
               attributed to decomposing plastics and common solvents associated with the residential
               waste stream (Engineering Science, 1988). It is possible that contaminated sediment which
               eroded from the landfill has entered Morro Bay in the past. For example, during major
               storms in 1983, portions of the buried trash were exposed and eroded by a tributary of Los
               Osos Creek. Monitoring of water continues in the estuary (State Water Resources Control
               Board, 1988). No conclusions have been made, but the following are clear:

               1.     Morro Bay's overall water quality is unknown, but some very limited mussel data is
                      available as an indicator of the bay's quality (with respect to metals and organics).

               2.     No mussel samples exceeded United States Food and Drug Administration action
                      levels, National Academy of Sciences guidelines, or median international standards.

               3.     Higher than expected concentrations occurred once for cadmium and mercury in
                      mussels.

               4.     Higher than expected concentrations occurred once for lindane, chlorbenside, and
                      phosphorothoic acid in mussels.

               These data indicate that a potential for problems exists in Morro Bay. Efforts are needed
               to prevent one-time occurrences of toxic concentrations becoming chronic problems.

               In addition, diesel fuel, gasoline, motor oil, and boat paint residues are added to estuary
               sediment by small spills from boats entering and moored in Morro Bay. A boatworks area
               along the estuary shore has been shown to be a source of heavy metal and toxic organics
               contamination in the past (State Water Resources Control Board, 1988).


               Urban Runoff

               Morro Bay estuary receives significant amounts of storm runoff from the streets of the city
               of Morro Bay, and from streets in and around Los Osos. The chemistry of this runoff is
               complex, but would include significant amounts of oil and grease from automobiles, lead
               residuals from gasoline, small amounts of heavy metals derived from engine crankcases,











                                                         -31-

            pesticides and fertilizer, and nutrients from street waste. Several studies (Benner, 1985;
            Thompson et al., 1975) have been conducted in large metropolitan areas like San Francisco
            and Chesapeake Bay rcgion,to document this problem. Street waste would include soils,
            vegetation such as leaves and lawn clippings, fine pellets from the breakdown of styrofoam
            containers, nutrients and biological hazards associated with animal feces, and crankcase
            oils disposed illegally into storm drains. The amount of pollutant discharge into the
            estuary would depend on the accumulation time between runoff events, and rainfall
            amounts. The effect on the estuary would depend on the state of the tide at the time of
            discharge, with the greatest impact being during the flood tide.

            Other nonpoint pollution sources are live-aboard boaters, boat painting and cleaning, and
            fuel docks. The ultimate fate of pollutants is uncertain. Some would bond to the clay
            minerals suspended in the waters of the estuary, and would ultimately be deposited on the
            floor of the estuary, where they would interact with the benthic ecosystems. Some would
            remain in suspension, possibly entering the food chain, and others might float as trash,
            accumulating on shorelines. The ultimate destination of toxics in the food chain would
            have implications to the survivability of the brown pelican, peregrine falcon, and sea otter
            which use the estuary waters.

            Point source pollution of Morro Bay has, in the past, been attributed to accidental lift
            station failures, fish cleaning operations, dredge operations, and the Morro Bay Aquarium.
            The level of coliform bacteria in the estuary has been sufficiently high to prevent the sale
            of oysters grown in the estuary.

            Much of the water flowing down Chorro Creek in the summer months is effluent from the
            California Men's Colony treatment plant, which at times has violated clean water
            standards.


            Risk from Oil Development and Spills

            The President's Task Force on Offshore Oil Drilling reported on September 21, 1989 that
            the chances of a coastal oil spill in the next 30 years for Southern California were 99.5
            percent and for Northern California were 96 percent. Four major marine terminals lie just
            north of the estuary, served by offshore tanker moorings. Small spills have taken place in
            the past. In addition, there may be increased oil activity in the Santa Maria Basin. Thus
            there could be a serious spill. The protection available for the estuary is presently
            inadequate due to a lack of full coordination, immediately available equipment and
            weather and sea conditions which often do not allow control.

            Loss of Freshwater Flows

            The Morro Bay watershed is the source of drinking water for the communities of Los Osos
            (population about 16,000), the California Men's Colony (population about 6-8,000), and the
            city of Morro Bay (population about 10,000). The Los Osos area utilizes a deep sedimentary
            basin that extends below the dunes of the southeast side of the estuary, and beneath the
            central and southern portions of the tidelands. Sea water intrusion of these sub-estuary
            aquifers has occurred in the past, and may increase if population continues to rise and
            water use is not managed properly (Yates and Wiese, 1988). California Men's Colony draws
            water from Chorro Reservoir in the upper reaches of Chorro Creek. This can be
            supplemented when necessary by imported water. The city of Morro Bay draws on a well
            field on the lower portion of Chorro Creek, adjacent to the tidal wetlands in an area where
            there is also significant use by agriculture.

            At present, groundwater recharge of aquifers comes from the same sources that bring
            freshwater to the estuary, and increases in groundwater diversion directly affect the flow
            of creeks, the number of flow days, and wildlife and botanic values associated with a f resh
            water supply. Freshwater flows from the two main creeks (a third was diverted from the











                                                            -32-

               bay in the 1940's) entering the bay have been reduced, and at times completely interrupted,
               through a combination of agricultural and urban uses.

               Effluent from septic tanks recharges the upper portion of the sand dunes in Los Osos, and
               much of this water probably returns to the estuary through springs. The amount of flow of
               these springs controls the boundary and vitality of fresh and brackish water ecosystems
               surrounding the estuary, and these may be affected as changes in effluent disposal are
               implemented in Los Osos. Such changes are being mandated by the Basin Plan of the
               Regional Water Quality Control Board, which will require an end to septic tank effluent
               disposal in Los Osos, and the diversion of effluent to a central treatment plant and disposal
               site. Such changes may have a profound affect on the estuary's ecosystems.

               Streams flowing into Chorro Creek may be subjected to appropriation and diversion by the
               city of Morro Bay, at points above their present point of well extraction. Environmental
               studies are currently under way, and the diversion will be subject to State Department of
               Water Resources hearings and rulings.

               The lagoon habitats at the mouths of the creeks have also been heavily impacted by water
               diversion and siltation. Coastal brackish marsh, a sensitive habitat present at the mouths
               of the creeks, is being rapidly lost due to silt accretion (California Natural Diversity
               Database, 1988). Most of the lower watersheds have dried out entirely during the past
               several drought summers. The tidewater goby, a candidate for listing on the Federal
               Endangered Species List, is a brackish water species that for the past several years has not
               been documented in either creek mouth. If this species still inhabits the estuary, its
               numbers have been greatly reduced as a result of habitat degradation by water diversion
               and siltation.

               The increase of imported water into the watershed, and subsequent disposal of treated
               effluent into the estuary, may also impact the estuary relative to water quality and fresh
               water budget.

               Unfortunately, there have been no definitive studies to examine the impact on Morro Bay's
               estuarine communities by deprivation of freshwater. At this point, we can only turn to
               studies conducted elsewhere to speculate that biological productivity has been significantly
               reduced in the Morro Bay estuary. The result of lowered productivity will have impacted
               not only the abundance and diversity of the estuary's invertebrate and fish communities,
               but also the marine mammals and thousands of resident and migratory birds which rely on
               them for food sources. The question of the importance of freshwater influences is the
               subject of a preliminary study, funded by The Bay Foundation of Morro Bay (The Morro
               Group, 1990). More work will be needed, however, before we truly begin to understand the
               ecological and economic consequences of freshwater loss to the estuary.


               Institutional Arranaements

               There are no unique laws or regulations applicable in the Morro Bay watershed. The many
               local, state and federal environmental laws, regulations and policies apply in the Morro Bay
               watershed as they do across the nation. The water quality, water use, land use and
               environmental protection laws are diverse and complex. Review, monitoring and
               enforcement of many environmental regulations is lax or lacking in the watershed.

               The need for enhanced protection is critical as the Morro Bay watershed lies within the
               fastest growing area of the Pacific Coast and is presently experiencing greatest pressure
               from land uses. The pristine nature of this area actually works against the watershed. Due
               to the crisis orientation in governmental organizations, Morro Bay is often at the bottom of
               priority lists. The need, at this time, is mainly for protection and enhancement. This good
               condition of Morro Bay could easily reverse (and may be already) to a condition that needs
               extensive clean-up. This would, of course, be a much more expensive and time-consuming
               situation for all responsible agencies as well as being a terrible environmental loss.











                                                      -33-


            A baseline understanding of Morro Bay is almost totally lacking. There is a need to
            understand what is happening in the watershed so that the monitoring and enforcement
            activities of the various State and Federal clean water and environmental protection laws
            can be properly conducted. The weaknesses in the current monitoring effort in Morro Bay
            area lie in lack of coordinated planning, determination of need, and in interpretation of
            results, with appropriate feedback to the planning and regulatory process. Routine
            monitoring results are less frequently subjected to thorough evaluation, partly due to
            resource limitations within responsible agencies.

            The developing relationships among the agencies through the existing Morro Bay Task
            Force has "broken the ground." Once formalized within the management conference
            structure, these relationships will help to assure a speedy resolution of these problems.

            Convening of a Morro Bay Management Conference will be an effective tool to promote the
            necessary planning, identification of problems, and development of appropriate
            coordinated monitoring and enforcement. The process developed here will aid in the
            protection and enhancement of Morro Bay's many unique and significant values.



                                     LIKELIHOOD FOR SUCCESS OF THE
                                 MORRO BAY MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE


            Many  of the environmental problems faced by Morro Bay are still potential problems which
            can be solved through proper planning and a pollution prevention strategy. This enhances
            the potential for success of the management conference since, in general, preventative
            measures are more successful and economical in preserving resources than are remedial
            measures. A management conference for Morro Bay will be successful because the State of
            California, many local agencies, environmental groups, members of the State and Federal
            legislature, and, most importantly, the public are committed to protecting and enhancing
            the bay's resources and beneficial uses. The management conference is needed to
            coordinate the research, data collection and other efforts which have already been
            undertaken in Morro Bay and to create a comprehensive conservation and management
            plan (CCMP) for mitigating the varied problems. The Morro Bay Management Conference
            will provide a demonstration program for use in the many small estuaries across the nation,
            whether in the NEP or not.

            Ouestions

            0     What are state and local governments, and public and private institutions already
                  doing for Morro Bay?

                  The Morro Bay Task Force, composed of some 50 agencies and interest groups, is
                  working to understand the complexities of the interactions influencing the bay and
                  is working towards united goals and identification of research needs for the
                  watershed. Friends of the Estuary, a local non-profit group, coordinated the
                  development of this nomination. State and Federal agencies regulate water quality
                  in Morro Bay. The California Coastal Conservancy has funded Phase I of a
                  Watershed Enhancement Plan prepared by the Soil Conservation Service to reduce
                  sedimentation in the estuary.

            0     What goals and objectives do you propose to set for the estuary and how do you
                  propose to met them?

                  The Task Force has adopted the coordinated goal of "the long term preservation,
                  conservation and enhancement of the Morro Bay and associated wetlands, nearshorc
                  and watershed environments for all occupants and users, whether human, other











                                                           -34-

                      animal or plant." This goal is further defined and objectives identified, with the
                      Fxpectation that they will be accomplished through formalizing the task force effort
                      in a National Estuary Program management conference.

               0      Who will participate in the management conference and how will it be organized?

                      The management conference will include all the entities that use, regulate, study, or
                      make decisions concerning Morro Bay, including State and Federal-elected officials,
                      local officials, regulatory agencies, resource agencies, dischargers, environmental
                      groups, and scientific researchers. The management conference will be organized
                      into a Sponsoring Agency Committee, a Policy Committee composed of decision
                      makers from all these groups, Technical and Public Advisory Groups, and a number
                      of subcommittees.

               0      Is there public and political will, as well as financial capability, to support
                      implementation of the CCMP?

                      There is tremendous public support for Task Force efforts to convene a management
                      conference and to implement a management plan, as illustrated by broad
                      participation in the Task Force and the,growth of environmental groups directly
                      concerned with Morro Bay. Local, State and Federal elected representatives have
                      expressed support for the nomination. The agencies presently active in the Task
                      Force are supporting this effort financially. These in-kind funds will provide the
                      required 25 percent match of federal funding for participation in the National
                      Estuary Program.


               Pollution Control History

               The State Water Resources Control Board (State Board) and the Central Coast Regional
               Water Quality Control Board (Regional Board) have the primary responsibilities for
               implementing the Clean Water Act (CWA) and State water quality mandates in the central
               coast area. The State and EPA have formed an effective partnership in carrying out
               CWA-mandated programs. In addition, the State has worked and continues to work
               productively with other federal, State, and local entities on ocean related topics and on
               issues directly related to the Morro Bay area.

               Water quality programs in California are based upon Federal mandate and State statutes.
               California's Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act and related Water Code sections
               define the structure, programs and enforcement powers of the State Board and the
               Regional Boards. In combination with the CWA and its recent amendments, these laws
               form the basis for a comprehensive approach to the overall protection of the bay and
               estuarine waters.

               Traditional Federal Programs

               At the federal level, pollution-control efforts culminated in the 1972 passage of a complete
               revision of the Water Pollution Control Act (Clean Water Act or CWA). The Act required
               states or the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to set standards for surface
               water quality, mandate sewage treatment effluent and receiving water limits, regulate
               wastewater discharges, and implement waste discharger monitoring systems. The State of
               California has assumed the responsibility for implementing the Clean Water Act in
               California, including issuing discharge permits, operating the grants program and setting
               water quality standards.

               The Clean Water Act and California's Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act
               (Porter-Cologne) requires Water Quality Control Plans (Basin Plans) which are adopted by
               each Regional Board for each of the state's nine regions. Basin plans identify beneficial
               uses for each water body in the region, establish water quality objectives, and











                                                       -35-

            implementation programs. Basin Plans are reviewed at least once every three years and are
            revised as needed to reflect changes in public priorities or in state or federal programs.

            The Clean Water Act was amended in 1987 to include a new Section 319 entitled "Nonpoint
            Source Management Programs." Section 319 requires the states to develop Assessment
            Reports and Management Programs describing the states' nonpoint source problems and set
            forth a program to address the problems. The State Board's November, 1988, Nongoint
            Source Assessment Rei)ort and Nonpoint Source Manapement Plan. responds to this
            requirement. Section 319 authorizes federal grants to the states to support implementation
            of the Management Programs.

            New Federal and State Activities

            The State of California is developing a State Clean Water Strategy (CWS). The CWS is a
            process to provide an efficient means to address water quality issues throughout California.
            The CWS will link State and Regional Board programs together in directing actions on
            individual water bodies. In directing these actions, the CWS relies on the statewide Water
            Quality Assessment to provide the technical information necessary for management
            decisions. The CWS pulls together this technical information and recommended actions
            into a plan to direct staff and resources towards the highest priority water quality issues.

            The Water Quality Assessment (WQA) provides a catalog of the water bodies in the state
            organized by region and by water body type (Rivers and Streams, Lakes and Reservoirs,
            Ground Water, Bays and Estuaries, etc.). Information on water quality conditions is
            provided for each water body. The condition of these water bodies is described as "good,"
            "intermediate," or "impaired," and the nature and source of threats or impairments to
            beneficial uses are described.

            A WQA is prepared by each region, and the regional WQAs are compiled into a statewide
            WQA by the State Board. The statewide WQA can then be used to satisfy several federal
            reporting requirements including the Section 305(b) Biennial Water Quality Assessment
            report on the conditions in California's waters, and updates to several federally mandated
            lists of water bodies that are impaired or warrant concern due to point and/or nonpoint
            sources. (See 40 CFR 13 1.11, and Sections 303(d), 304(l), 314 and 319 of the CWA.)

            The CWS goes beyond the basic assessment of the water quality. The CWS will be used to
            review current actions and identify additional measures which may be necessary to protect
            water quality. It will also be used to review the costs of these measures and identify which
            water quality programs must work in concert to accomplish the goals.

            Morro Bay has been classified in the WQA as being impaired due to sedimentation from
            nonpoint sources and shellfish bacteria contamination. Morro Bay is on both the CWA
            Section 304(l) list and Section 319 list for the above reasons.

            There is a need to coordinate several CWA activities with the proposed estuary program.
            Coordination needs are discussed below:

            0      Toxic Control Strategies - To date, most water quality data does not reveal problems
                   from toxics (an exception is toxic metals in sediments at one boatworks sampled).
                   However, very little water-column toxics data is available. Agency coordination is
                   necessary to collect appropriate data and determine future needs. Land use controls
                   may be necessary to assure protection from toxics.

            0      Nonmint Source Pollution - The State Water Resources Control Board's Nonvoint
                   Source Management Plan (November, 1988), indicates the need for stronger links
                   between the local, state, and federal agencies which have powers to manage
                   nonpoint sources. The State Board and Regional Boards will seek agreements with
                   these agencies to implement best management practices. The Nonpoint Source
                   Management Plan also identifies potential funding sources.











                                                           -36-



                      To implement the Nonpoint Source Management Program and solve existing
                      nonpoint source problems, cooperation will be necessary among several agencies. A
                      management conference can facilitate the necessary cooperation by bringing
                      together the concerned parties. For example, to solve sediment problems,
                      cooperation will be necessary among several agencies (San Luis Obispo County,
                      California Coastal Commission, California Coastal Conservancy, United States
                      Department of Agriculture, County Agriculture Commission, EPA, California Fish
                      and Game, and California Regional Water Quality Control Board, to name a few).

               0      State Revolvinp, Fund - State Revolving Funds can provide funds to implement
                      point and nonpoint source projects. The Regional Water Quality Control Board sets
                      the priority on projects into potential fundable categories. The State Water
                      Resources Control Board approves a final fundable list.

                      The Management Committee should make recommendations for loan projects to the
                      Regional Board.

               State Water Quality Programs

               The statewide program for water quality control is administered regionally within a
               framework of statewide coordination and policy. The State Board and the six coastal
               Regional Boards are the primary agencies responsible for regulating water quality in bay
               and estuarine waters.

               For Morro Bay, the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board (Regional Board)
               is the primary agency responsible for implementing state water quality laws, plans and
               regulations. The Regional Board has a basin plan, issues waste discharge requirements,
               takes enforcement action against violators, and monitors water quality.

               The State Board has adopted a statewide policy for California bay and estuarine waters
               which applies to Morro Bay -- the Water Quality Control Policy for the Enclosed Days and
               Estuaries of California (Policy) (State Water Resources Control Board, 1974). It was
               adopted specifically to provide water quality principles and guidelines for bays and
               estuaries to prevent degradation and protect beneficial uses in enclosed bays and estuaries.

               Decisions by the Regional Boards must be consistent with the Policy. The policy lists
               principles of management that include an objective of phasing out all discharges (exclusive
               of cooling waters) as soon as practicable. The following types of discharges are prohibited:

               1.     New dischargers (other than those that would enhance the receiving waters);

               2.     Untreated waste and waste products;

               3.     Ref use;

               4.     Consequential effects of mining, construction, agriculture, and timber harvesting;

               5.     Materials of petroleum origin;

               6.     Radiological, chemical, or high-level radioactive waste; or,

               7.     Discharge or by-pass of untreated waste.

               The State Board is currently developing a Water Quality Control Plan for the Enclosed
               Bays and Estuaries of California (Enclosed Bays and Estuaries Plan). The Enclosed Bays
               and Estuaries Plan will establish beneficial uses and numerical water quality objectives for
               toxic pollutants for bays and estuaries. The Plan is scheduled for adoption in January,
               1991.











                                                        -37-


            The State Mussel Watch (SMW) program is the State Board's long-term marine water quality
            monitoring program. The SMW measures concentrations of pollutants in mussels as a means
            of monitoring for the presence of toxic substances in marine and estuarine waters. The
            report, "California State Mussel Watch, Ten Year Data Summary, 1977-1987," (State Water
            Resources Control Board, 1988) indicates that four stations in Morro Bay have been
            monitored in different years. Unfortunately, the data are too limited to describe trends or
            fully characterize the Bay.

            The Department of Health Services (DHS) has the responsibility for determining whether a
            public health risk is associated with eating shellfish from a location in California. DHS
            may declare an area closed f or shellf ish harvesting if shellf ish are unsaf e or unf it f or
            human consumption (Health and Safety Code, Chapter 10, Section 28502). There have been
            periodic instances when shellfish harvesting in Morro Bay has been halted due to bacterial
            contamination. At these times, joint efforts have been made by the Central Coast Regional
            Board and DHS to determine the bacteria source. DHS, in cooperation with Regional Board
            staff, is currently performing a "Sources of Bacteria Contamination Investigation" for
            Morro Bay. The study involves collecting shellfish samples from different locations.
            Periodic water quality samples are taken to determine the bacteria contarnination origin.
            Progress has been made by both agencies in identifying and regulating some additional
            bacterial dischargers. However, occasional shellfish contamination still occurs. Joint
            efforts are being made to control point source discharges, private lift-station failures, and
            live-aboard boat discharges. The establishment of a Management Conference will facilitate
            necessary controls.

            Local Programs

            There are no specific local efforts to prevent pollution. The Morro Bay Task Force, as
            described earlier has been the means of information exchange to aid in understanding
            pollution control responsibilities.

            Mgnagement Cogference Goals, OWectives and Action Planj

            While the specific goals of the Management Conference will be established after it is
            convened, the Morro Bay Task Force has already addressed this question and developed
            common goals and objectives in April, 1989.

            The overall aim of the Morro Bay Task Force is the long-term preservation, conservation
            and enhancement of the Morro Bay and associated wetlands, nearshore, and watershed
            environments for all occupants and users, whether human, other animal or plant. This
            broad objective is further defined by four primary goals:

            1.     Achieve effective, coordinated management of the bay and watershed.

            2.     Develop a comprehensive understanding of the environmental and public health
                   values related to the bay and watershed and how these values interact with social
                   and economic factors.

            3.     Develop a Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan to restore and
                   maintain the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the bay and watershed,
                   including restoration and maintenance of water quality, a balanced indigenous
                   population of shellfish, fish and wildlife, and recreation activities in the bay and
                   watershed and assure that desired uses of the bay and watershed are protected.

            4.     Assure long-term implementation of the comprehensive conservation and
                   management plan.











                                                             -38-

               Each of these primary goals involves a number of supporting tasks. Following goals
               identification, the task force has been identifying unanswered questions, i.e., research
               needs, towards the preparation of action plans.

               Management Conference Organization and Participants

               The Morro Bay Management Conference will be directed by the National Estuary Program
               Policy Committee (Figure 7). The present Task Force will be organized into a Public
               Advisory Committee and a Technical Advisory Committee. The NEP Policy Committee
               will be composed of decision makers representing city, County, State and Federal agencies
               to give guidance and direction to the working groups in the preparation of the
               comprehensive conservation and management plan. A number of technical subcommittees
               will address specific issues for review and incorporation into the comprehensive
               conservation management plan. Subcommittees will be established to address water quality,
               land use planning, endangered species, estuary enhancement practices, recreation,
               institutional relationships, education and demonstration projects. All of the present
               participants in the Morro Bay Task Force will be represented in the management
               conference. One of the primary benefits of acceptance in the program will be the
               formalizing of. present relationships and the ability for agencies presently only peripherally
               involved to increase their commitment to their responsibilities in Morro Bay.

               The Sponsoring Agency Committee (SAC) will have members from the Central Coast
               Regional Board, the State Board, the County of San Luis Obispo, and EPA. The SAC will
               advise on State, federal and local priorities and give general direction to the Policy
               Committee on funding and implementation of recommendations.

               Public Support

               One of the greatest assets of the Morro Bay estuary is the manner in which individuals,
               organizations and agencies have united to support the nomination of the Morro Bay estuary
               to the National Estuary Program. The citizens of the area have always been fiercely proud
               of the Morro Bay ecosystem, even to the point of being boastful about its unspoiled beauty,
               and its undisputed claim as the only remaining estuary in California, south of San
               Francisco, that has not been destroyed or severely altered by the hand of man.

               The erosion and sediment studies of the Morro Bay watershed (Haltiner, 1988; USDA/SCS,
               1989), financed by the California Coastal Conservancy, documented the alarming rate at
               which the bay is being filled with sediment, and the speed at which the estuary is being
               converted to upland habitat. These facts came as a shock to most people in the area. The
               realization that the estuary is threatened, generated a grass roots reaction. Individuals,
               organizations and agencies united to determine a course to follow that would result in, not
               only slowing the sedimentation processes, but also would provide for the long-term
               restoration and enhancement of the total ecosystem. After studying the various options, it
               was clear that the National Estuary Program was best suited to the long term needs of the
               Morro Bay estuary.

               The public sector has willingly and enthusiastically accepted its role in all programs
               directed toward the acceptance of the Morro Bay estuary into EPA's National Estuary
               Program. The environmental interest groups were also quick to respond. They support
               such a goal, and all are willing and anxious to participate in the decision-making process
               that the Management Conference would oversee. Local groups demonstrating their desire
               to be a part of the process are as follows:











                                                            -39-


                            Orptanization                                        Membership

                            Morro Coast Audubon Society                              700
                            Sierra Club, Santa Lucia Chapter                         1800
                            Morro Coast Natural History Assn                         700
                            Small Wilderness Society                                 300
                            California Native Plant Society                          400
                            Friends of the Estuary at Morro Bay                      2000



             A number of new public interest groups have been formed, all working to enhance and
             extend the lif e of the estuary, and to establish a f ormal management system as of f ered by
             EPA's National Estuary Program. These arc:

             0       Friends of the Estuary at Morro Bay. A non-prof it advocacy group working to
                     extend the life of the Morro Bay ecosystem through positive programs of
                     enhancement, conservation and rehabilitation. Its immediate goal is to secure a
                     comprehensive management plan for the estuary under the National Estuary
                     Program. Accordingly, the Friends of the Estuary played an important role in the
                     preparation of this nomination document (Friends of the Estuary, 1989).

                     Although this group has been in existence only since early 1989, the membership has
                     reached the 2000 mark. It is expected that this figure will grow to 3000 by the end
                     of 1991. The organization holds regular public meetings. Interest in these meetings
                     is very strong with attendance sometimes reaching to over one hundred. A quote
                     from a Morro Bay Sun-Bulletin editorial (2/2/89) illustrates this point:

                            "One of the most heartening examples of enlightened public spiritedness we
                            have seen in a long time is the interest being shown in Morro Bay estuary.
                            More than 100 persons turned out for a January 10 meeting to establish a
                            citizens' advocacy group to work to preserve the Morro Bay estuary. For this
                            area that is a big crowd. Its size is a measure of the public interest in the
                            wetlands, mudflats and harbor,"


             0       The Bay Foundation of Morro Bay. A non-profit public benefit corporation,
                     organized to study, conserve and enhance the bay, the estuary, and the watershed,
                     through scientific, historic, ecological, agricultural, and other programs. This
                     organization has already received grant money and is funding an investigation of
                     fresh water influences in the estuary, and studies to determine shorebird
                     populations in the bay.

             0       The Bay Foundation is ideally suited to contribute to the Management Conference
                     concept and could easily become the fiscal-administration arm for needed research.

             0       Coastal Resources Institute (CRI). A research and educational organization being
                     formed at California Polytechnic University at San Luis Obispo. The goal is to
                     foster research on conservation and management of coastal resources. CRI could
                     contribute to the Management Conference concept by providing a pool of dedicated
                     academic scientists who are already committed to the need for an action plan for
                     the management of the Morro Bay estuary.

             Public support for an estuary program extends to the business community of the city of
             Morro Bay and Los Osos-Baywood Park. The media has also been supportive. The Morro
             Bay Sun-Bullctin, and the San Luis Obispo Telegram-Tribune have been generous in their
             coverage. Both newspapers have published numerous articles and editorials endorsing the
             need for a management conference. Editorials have encouraged and applauded the effort
             being made to reach that goal.










                                                                   -40-






                                                                 Morro Bay
                                                National Estuary Program
                                       Management Conference Structure




                                                    Sponsoring Agency Committee
                                                            (EPAIS t a t elCo u n ty)





                                                              Policy Committee
                                                     (Decision makers from local,
                                                       sLote, and federal agencies)





                                                                                         Project Monagernent
                                                                                                and Stoff



                                 -------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------




                                          1c Advisory                                    Technical    Advisory
                                          ornmittee                                           Committee


                                                            Morro Ecv Task Force
                                 I-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------






                                 Figure 7. Management Conference Structure











                                                          41-


             The Morro Bay Watershed Enhancement Plan (USDA/SCS, 1989b), prepared for Coastal San
             Luis Resource Conservation District by the SCS details plans and recommendations for
             dealing with erosion in the watershed to reduce the excessive sedimentation that is
             reaching the estuary. This report was developed with full participation of all interested
             parties, including the landowners and residents in the study area. The success of this
             project demonstrates the willingness of the public to become involved, if the goal is to
             preserve, enhance and extend the life of the Morro Bay estuary. Phase I of this plan has
             just been funded by the California Coastal Conservancy for $410,000, with an additional
             $160,000 grant from the EPA.

             Political Commitment

             Political concern for the natural resources of the Morro Bay ecosystem was expressed in
             State Senate Resolution No. 176 (1966). This resolution recognized the importance of the
             Morro Bay estuary to the people of California as a unique wildlife habitat. It also noted
             that the area's scenic attractions were of great aesthetic importance to visitors and to
             residents. The resolution requested the Resources Agency to prepare a plan for the
             preservation of the natural resources therein.

             In 1990, Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) No. 118, introduced by Assemblyman Eric
             Seastrand and supported in the Senate by Kenneth Maddy, was enacted by the California
             Legislature on June 29, 1990. ACR 118 "affirms the importance and value of Morro Bay,
             its estuary, and its environs to the people of California ... declares a long-range management
             plan should be developed to coordinate the efforts of government agencies and other
             groups...and supports the nomination of Morro Bay as a National Estuary, as provided in
             federal law, to be administered by the EPA."

             The county of San Luis Obispo, and the city of Morro Bay are the two political entities,
             other than State and Federal agencies, that have jurisdiction in the area under
             consideration for nomination to the National Estuary Program. The total land and water
             area involved is 48,000 acres. Approximately 95 percent of this area is under the
             jurisdiction of the county, the remainder falling within the boundaries of the city of
             Morro Bay.

             Both the county Board of Supervisors and the Council of the city of Morro Bay have
             endorsed the management conference concept, and are prepared to participate. Both
             governing bodies have urged the nomination of the Morro Bay estuary to the National
             Estuary Program.

             William B. Coy, Supervisor, 2nd District, as Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, wrote on
             July 26, 1988:

                    "We urge you (the Governor) to nominate Morro Bay to the Administrator of the U.S.
                    Environmental Protection Agency for acceptance to the (National Estuary)
                    Program ......

             Dale Reddell, as Mayor of Morro Bay, expressed the wishes of the City Council on July 26,
             1988:

                    "We are encouraged by the prospect of Morro Bay's inclusion in the National
                    Estuary Program, and sincerely hope that you (the Governor) can support our
                    objective by nominating Morro Bay."

             The late Assemblyman Eric Seastrand, Twenty-Ninth District, and Senator Kenneth L.
             Maddy have both demonstrated support for the nomination. Assemblyman Seastrand wrote
             on August 5, 1988, that:











                                                           -42-


                      "There is tremendous community support for this designation (National Estuary
                      Program) which would formalize the working relationship already underway
                      between the various county, State, and Federal agencies, and private
                      organizations...."

              Senator Kenneth Maddy, in a letter to the Governor on August 12, 1988 stated:

                      "I would like to add my support to the request of the city of Morro Bay, and the
                      county of San Luis Obispo for your nomination of Morro Bay to the National
                      Estuary Program."

              Congressman Leon Panetta has supported the nomination process and has offered to help in
              any way possible. In a letter to the Governor on September 9, 1988 he expressed his support
              as follows:

                      "Morro Bay is one of our State's most important natural resources . .... The variety
                      of threats and the fragmented management have made it difficult to develop a
                      comprehensive approach to addressing the needs of the Bay. The National Estuary
                      Program appears to be ideally tailored to problems such as those facing Morro Bay."

              It is apparent that the political will exists to convene an effective and productive
              Management Conference, and to carry such a process to a successful conclusion.

              Financial Capability

              Section 320 of the Clean Water Act requires the State to provide local matching funds for
              NEP projects in an amount equal to 25 percent of the total funds received for the project.
              It is estimated that the first year of this program will cost $400-$500,000. The State's share
              of this total will be provided through local funds for (1) city and county participation on
              the Task Force, (2) the continuing commitment of staff for the Morro Bay management
              conference, and (3) the development and implementation of the comprehensive
              conservation and management plan for Morro Bay. In addition to these local funds a small
              amount of in-kind State resources to participate in the Management Conference will count
              towards the State match.

              Staff of at least I I State agencies (the California Coastal Commission, California Coastal
              Conservancy, California Conservation Corps, Regional Water Quality Control Board,
              California Fish and Game, California Parks and Recreation Department, University of
              California, Co-operative Extension, Farm and Home Advisor, and the Sea Grant Program,
              State Lands Commission, State Department of Health Services, and Cal Poly State
              University) are already involved and committed to this process through their activities in
              the Morro Bay Task Force. Budget definitions will be changed to account for these
              activities under the NEP. Local agencies, expertise and commercial and environmental
              groups active in -the Morro Bay Task Force are committing considerable support to
              management conference activities.

              A number of specific part- and full-time positions will be defined, funded and filled in
              order to more clearly address'the tasks. These might include:

              1.      Program Manager and Executive Secretary to the Policy Committee, responsible for
                      planning, budgeting, coordination and operations.

              2.      Public Relations, responsible for liaison with the public, knowledgeable in
                      governmental and regulatory affairs, and in relevant scientific issues.

              3.      Watershed/Land Use Planner, responsible for development of watershed plan,
                      liaison with committee addressing this issue.











                                                          -43-

             4.     Estuarine Biologist, knowledgeable in freshwater, estuarine and marine biological
                    resources, impacts and environmental modeling, responsible for development of
                    estuary planning and liaison with committee addressing this issue.

             5.     Environmental/Pollution Control Specialist, knowledgeable in sediment and water
                    quality issues, control technology treatment and economics, and liaison with the
                    committee addressing this issue.

             A financial strategy will be developed within two years of the convening of a management
             conference to pay for implementation of the comprehensive conservation and management
             plan.




                                                      FINDINGS



             0      How can the lessons learned from this bay be applied to other coastal areas within
                    the state or to other states? What problems, causes of those problems, and/or
                    biogeographic area is represented by this estuary that is not already addressed by
                    existing programs in the NEP?

                    Morro Bay is a relatively pristine estuary threatened by development pressure and
                    changing land use. It is an example of the many small and medium sized estuaries
                    on the Pacific Coast and around the nation that face similar threats. Sedimentation
                    and habitat loss, including deepwater, lagoon, littoral and wetland habitat have
                    already occurred. Shellfish harvesting has been restricted due to bacterial
                    contamination. The development of technical solutions and institutional
                    arrangements to prevent further pollution could save the natural resources of Morro
                    Bay and serve as a model for saving resources elsewhere.

             0      Why is the estuary important to the nation?

                    Morro Bay is the only major estuary in California south of San Francisco that has
                    not been significantly altered by human activities. A large number of Federally-
                    listed endangered and threatened plant and animal species reside or occur in the
                    watershed or rely on the estuary for a significant part of their life cycles. The
                    estuary serves a critical environmental function for a number of migratory bird
                    species of the Pacific Flyway. International treaties protect these species and their
                    habitat. The estuary serves as an important breeding and nursing area for a number
                    of species important to the coastal commercial and recreational fisheries industry.

             0      What is the geographic scope of Morro Bay?

                    The proposed study area is the watershed of Morro Bay and the Bay itself seaward
                    to the breakwaters at the harbor mouth (Figure 1). The 48,000 acre (75 square
                    miles) Morro Bay watershed lies entirely within San Luis Obispo County.

             0      What is the importance of the estuary at Morro Bay on a local or regional scale?

                    The 2,300 acres that comprise Morro Bay contain the most significant wetland
                    system on the central coast. The estuary also serves an important nursery function
                    for many species of fish and invertebrates, including steelhead and halibut. Morro
                    Bay is unique in its retention of much of its ecological integrity in a coastline that
                    is increasingly overdeveloped. Beyond these resource values, the bay offers
                    residents and visitors outstanding scenic, aesthetic, scientific and recreational
                    values. It supports important commercial fishing, mariculture operations and a
                    thriving tourist industry.











                                                          _44-


               0      What are the major environmental problems facing the estuary?

                      Erosion in the watershed and sedimentation in the estuary are the greatest threats to
                      Morro Bay., The scientific community is in agreement that if sediment deposition in
                      the estuary continues at the present rate, the health, and indeed the very life of the
                      estuary is in severe jeopardy. Under normal conditions, an estuary and lagoon such
                      as Morro Bay, could have a life measured in the thousands of years (USDA/SCS,
                      1989a). However, if there is no abatement of sediment deliveries to the estuary, its
                      life expectancy is likely limited to some 300 years (Haltiner, 1988), with parts of the
                      southern section of the bay disappearing much sooner. The economic and
                      environmental impact of the death of the estuary would be severe.

                      In addition, development pressures in this region of the Central California coast are
                      great. Increasing population density and changing land use threaten water quality
                      and wildlife habitat. Urban runoff, discharge of sewage, and contamination by
                      pathogens and toxic substances are all potential problems for Morro Bay, as for most
                      estuaries. High coliform concentrations have been found in the Bay resulting in the
                      restriction of shellfish harvesting from time to time (Department of Health Services,
                      1985). For the most part these potential problems are not adequately understood.
                      With proper planning and monitoring, the impacts of development on Morro Bay can
                      be understood and solutions developed before the estuary becomes severely
                      impaired.

               0      What are the institutional arrangements for the watershed and how are they
                      working?

                      There are several city, County, State and Federal agencies with varied
                      responsibilities in the watershed. While there are on-going efforts to pull these
                      together, there is no single agency or management program to coordinate or to
                      formalize this effort.

               0      What is known about cause/effect relationships and how do you propose to better
                      identify the causes of environmental problems?

                      Recent studies have demonstrated that human activity and land use in the
                      watershed are related to sedimentation and loss of habitat in the bay, including
                      estuarine waters, which serve an important nursery function and riparian habitats.
                      Inadequate waste treatment is known to periodically cause poor water quality. By
                      focusing interest on specific questions (such as freshwater in-flows, waste treatment,
                      species of concern, etc.), we will be able to avoid a crisis in Morro Bay and act to
                      prevent pollution and enhance the Bay.

               0      What are State and local governments, and public and private institutions already
                      doing for Morro Bay?

                      The Morro Bay Task Force, composed of some 50 agencies and interest groups, is
                      working to understand the complexities of the interactions influencing the bay and
                      is working towards united goals and identification of research needs for the
                      watershed. Friends of the Estuary, a local non-profit group, coordinated the
                      development of this nomination. State and Federal agencies regulate water quality
                      in Morro Bay. The California Coastal Conservancy has funded Phase I of a
                      Watershed Enhancement Plan prepared by the Soil Conservation Service to reduce
                      sedimentation in the estuary.

               0      What goals and objectives do you propose to set for the estuary and how do you
                      propose to met them?

                      The Task Force has adopted the coordinated goal of "the long term preservation,
                      conservation and enhancement of the Morro Bay and associated wetlands, nearshore











                                                         -45-

                    and watershed environments for all occupants and users, whether human, other
                    animal or plant." This goal is further defined and objectives identified, with the
                    expectation that they will be accomplished through formalizing the task force effort
                    in a National Estuary Program management conference.

             0      Who will participate in the management conference and how will it be organized?

                    The management conference will include all the entities that use, regulate, study, or
                    make decisions concerning Morro Bay, including State and Federal elected officials,
                    local officials, regulatory agencies, resource agencies, dischargers, environmen' tal
                    groups, and scientific researchers. The management conference will be organized
                    into a Sponsoring Agency Committee, a Policy Committee composed of decision
                    makers from all these groups, Technical and Public Advisory Groups, and a number
                    of subcommittees.

             0      Is there public and political will, as well as financial capability, to support
                    implementation of the CCMP?

                    There is tremendous public support for Task Force efforts to convene a management
                    conference and to implement a management plan, as illustrated by broad
                    participation in the Task Force and the growth of environmental groups directly
                    concerned with Morro Bay. Local, State and Federal elected representatives have
                    expressed support for the nomination. The agencies presently active in the Task
                    Force are supporting this effort financially. These in-kind funds will provide the
                    required 25 percent match of federal funding for participation in the National
                    Estuary Program.



                                    CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

             Morro Bay is significant both nationally and locally for its estuarine values, salt and
             freshwater wetlands, threatened and endangered species, sport and commercial fisheries,
             and many recreational uses. The bay has experienced tremendous pressures recently with
             changing land uses, increasing population density and the associated water use and
             pollution pressures.

             The bay is impacted by identified pollution problems that are not being addressed
             completely by the current regulatory framework or pollution control efforts. Additionally,
             the public perceives the problems in the bay as serious, and are demanding that
             improvements be made in water quality and marine resources as well as in protection of
             public health. The management conference proposed for Morro Bay is an essential step
             toward addressing these problems.

             The State of California, therefore, recommends that the Administrator of the
             Environmental Protection Agency convene a management conference for Morro Bay. The
             State recommends further that the conference be convened as soon as is practicable.











                                                         -46-



                                                LITERATURE CITED


              Anthony, R., P. Jagger, and R. Briggs. 1988. Morro Bay Bacterial Study, 1986-1987: A
                     Cleanup and Abatement Study. California Regional Water Quality Control Board,
                     Central Coast Region.

              Arnold, C. 1987. Staff Recommendation for the Morro Bay Watershed Program: Los Osos
                     and Chorro Crecks Enhancement Plans State Coastal Conservancy. 10 pp.

              Benner, R.E. 1985. Urban sediment and stormwater control: The Maryland experience. J.
                     Soil and Water Conserv. 40: 72-75.

              Blunt, C.E., Jr. 1980. Atlas of California Coastal Marine Resources. California
                     Department of Fish and Game. 134 pp.

              Brown and Caldwell. 1984. Los Osos-Baywood Park Phase 11 Facilities Planning Study.
                     Project Report to San Luis Obispo County Service Area No. 9.

              Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife. 1972. Southern California Estuaries and Coastal
                     Wetlands (revised). U.S. Dept. of the Interior.

              California Coastal Zone Conservation Commission. 1975. California Coastal Plan.
                     California Coastal Commission. 443 pp.

              California Department of Fish and Game. 1972. The Natural Resources of Elkhorn
                     Slough, Their Present and Future Use. Coastal Wetland Series #4. Department of
                     Fish and Game. 105 pp.

              California Department of Fish and Game. 1988 (revised). Natural Diversity Data Base.

              California Department of Parks and Recreation (CPR). 1986. Resource Inventory, Morro
                     Bay Sate Park. Department of Parks and Recreation, Natural Heritage and Cultural
                     Heritage Sections. 68 pp.

              CPR.   1987. Los Osos Oaks State Preserve -- Preliminary General Plan, Department of
                     Parks and Recreation. 68 pp.

              CPR.   1988. Montana de Oro State Park, Preliminary General Plan. Department of Parks
                     and Recreation. 152 pp.

              CPR.   1988. Morro Bay State Park, Preliminary General Plan. Department of Parks and
                     Recreation. 152 pp.

              California Native Plant Society. Undated. List of Species of Concern.

              California Natural Diversity Database. 1988. Natural Heritage Program, California
                     Department of Fish and Game.

              California Polytechnic State University. 1986. Resource Inventory, Marine Life: Cayucos
                     State Beach, Morro Strand State Beach, Atascadero State Beach, Morro Bay State
                     Park, Montana de Oro State Park. California Polytechnic State University,
                     Biological Sciences Department. I 10 pp.

              City of Morro Bay. 1982. Morro Bay Coastal Land Use Plan. City of Morro Bay. 231 pp.












                                                       -47-


            Dennis, N., M. Marcus, and H. Hill. 1984. Status and Trends of California Wetlands.
                   Report prepared for the California Assembly Resources Subcommittee on Status and
                   Trends of California Wetlands. 125 pp. plus appendices.

            Department of Health Services. 1985. Sanitary Investigation of Shellfish and Water
                   Quality, Morro Bay; September, 1984 and January, 1985. California Regional Water
                   Quality Control Board, Central Coast Region.

            Engineering Science. 1987. Comprehensive Engineering Report: Los Osos Landfill.
                   Prepared for Engineering Department, County of San Luis Obispo, California.

            Environmental Protection Agency. 1988. The National Estuary Program and Final
                   Guidance on the Contents of a Governor's Nomination. Office of Marine and
                   Estuarine Protection, Office of Water.

            Evens, J., G. Pae, L. Stenzel, and N. Warnock. 1986. Distribution, Abundance and Habitat
                   of California Black Rails in Tidal Marshes of Marin and Sonoma Counties,
                   California. Point Reyes Bird Observatory unpublished report. 20 pp plus tables.

            Fierstine, H.L., K.F. Kline and G.R. Garman. 1973. Fishes Collected in Morro Bay,
                   California, Between January 1968 and December 1970. California Fish and Game
                   52(l): 73-88.

            Fish and Game Code of California. 1988. Gould Publications, 199/300 State Street.,
                   Binghamton, NY 13901-2782.

            Friends of the Estuary. 1989. The Morro Bay nomination for the National Estuary
                   Program was prepared by Eilleen Bowen, Angela Carpenter, Dave Chipping, Steve
                   Eabry, Holly Frank, Susan Hilinski-Farrel, Connie Harms, Paul Jagger, Linda Jones,
                   Bud Laurent, Bill Mazzacane, Jean McKown, Don Parham, Phil Persons, Galen
                   Rathbun, Tom Rice, and Karen Worcester.

            Gerdes, G., E. Primbs, and B. Browning. 1974. Natural Resources of Morro Bay--Their
                   Status and Future. California Department of Fish and Game, Coastal Wetlands
                   Series No. 8, 103 pp. plus appendices.

            Grote, J.A. and T. Patri. 1975. A Coastal Watershed Environmental Management System:
                   Morro Bay, California. For San Luis Obispo County and Cities Coordinating
                   Council. Conservation Planning Collaborative, Inc.

            Haltiner, J. 1988. Sedimentation Processes in Morro Bay, California. Philip Williams and
                   Associates, San Francisco. Report No. 437, 93 pp. plus appendices.

            Hutchinson, E.S., G.W. Page and P.E. Persons. 1987. The Nesting of Snowy Plovers on
                   Morro Bay Sand Spit During and After the 1987 Maintenance Dredging of Morro
                   Bay Harbor. Point Reyes Bird Observatory. 16 pp.

            Josselyn, M., M. Martindale, and J. Callaway. 1989. Biological Resources of Morro Bay as
                   Impacted by Watershed Development in Los Osos and Chorro Creek Watersheds.
                   State Coastal Conservancy Report. Oakland, California. 35 pp.

            Kramer, S., and J. Hunter. 1987. Southern California Wetland/Shallow Water Habitat
                   Investigation. National Marine Service, Southwest Fisheries Center, La Jolla,
                   California. 12 pp.

            Laurent, L., Associate Marine Biologist, California Department of Fish and Game. Personal
                   Communication.











                                                          -48-

               Nagano, C.D. and J. Lane. 1985. A Survey of the Location of Monarch Butterfly (Danaus
                      r)lcxip[)us (LI) Overwintering Roosts in the State of California: U.S.A. The Monarch
                      Project 30 pp.

               Nakamura, R., Ln-. J. Mac Intyre, S. Sparling, M. Faustini, R. Nakamura, B. Putman, and T.
                      Richards. 1986. Resource Inventory of Marine Life. A report for the California
                      Department of Parks and Recreation. 44 pp. plus appendices.

               Persons, P. 1989. Morro Coast Audubon. Personal Communication.

               Phillips, R.C. 1984. The Ecology of Eelgrass Meadows in the Pacific Northwest: A
                      community profile. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Publication, FWS/OBS-84/24, U.S.
                      Department of Interior, Washington, D.C.

               Pillsbury, N.H. 1979. Erosion Sources in the Morro Bay Watershed. County of San Luis
                      Obispo, Government Center.

               San Luis Obispo County. 1988. Local Coastal Plan, Estero Planning Area, 109 pp. and
                      maps.

               Smith, J. 1987. Aquatic Habitat and Fishery Utilization of Pescadero, San Gregorio,
                      Waddell and Pomponia Creek Estuary/Lagoon Systems. California State University
                      and California Parks and Recreation Interagency Agreement #4-823-6004.

               Soil and Water Conservation Society. 1985. Nonpoint water pollution; A special issue. J.
                      Soil and Water Conserv. 40: 1-176

               Spcth, J. 1979. Conservation and Management of Coastal Wetlands in California. In:
                      Shorebirds in marine environments (F. Pitelka, gAJ Studies in Avian Biology 2.
                      pp. 151-155.

               State Water Resources Control Board. 1974. Water Quality Control Policy for Enclosed
                      Bays and Estuaries of California. Sacramento, California.

               State Water Resources Control Board. 1988. California State Mussel Watch: Ten Year Data
                      Summary, 1977-1987. Water Quality Monitoring Report No. 87-3. Division of Water
                      Quality.

               Stenzel, L., J. Kjelmyr, G. Page, and W. Shuford. 1989. Results of the First Comprehensive
                      Shorebird Census of Northern and Central California, 8-12 September, 1988. Point
                      Reyes Bird Observatory unpublished report. 28 pp.

               Stokes and Jones Associates, Inc. 1981. Ecological Characterization of the Central and
                      Northern California Coastal Region. Volume 11, Part 1: Regional Characterization.
                      U.S. Department of the Interior 438 pp. Volume II, Part 2: Species. U.S. Department
                      of the Interior. 670 pp. Volume V: Data Source Appendix. U.S. Department of the
                      Interior. 68 pp.

               Tetra Tech, Inc. 1975. Sand Transport Analysis, Morro Bay. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
                      Contract No. DACW-09-75-0029.

               The Morro Group. 1987. Wastewater Treatment Facilities. Final Environmental Impact
                      Report. County of San Luis Obispo, Government Center.

               The Morro Group, 1990. Freshwater Influences to Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California.
                      The Morro Group and Tenera Environmental Services. 160 pp. plus Appendices.











                                                      -49-

            Thompson, J., K.K. Turekian, and R.J. McCaffrey. 1975. The Accumulation of Metals in
                  and Release from Sediments of Long Island Sound. p.28-44. In: L.E. Cronin (Ed.)
                  Estuarine research, Vol. 1. Academic Press, New York.

            U.S. Department of Agriculture/Soil Conservation Service (USDA/SCS). 1989a. Erosion
                  and Sediment Study Morro Bay Watershed. Coastal San Luis Resource Conservation
                  District and California Coastal Conservancy.

            USDA/SCS. 1989b. Morro Bay Watershed Enhancement Plan. Coastal San Luis Resource
                  Conservation District and California Coastal Conservancy.

            Wiegel, R.L. 1967. An Ocean Engineering Study of Morro Bay. Berkeley, California.
                  Prepared for the City of Morro Bay. 45 pp. plus appendices.

            Westec Services, Inc. 1988. Twin Bridges Replacement Project. Draft/EIS Report and
                  Evaluation. County of San Luis Obispo, Government Center.

            Yates, E. B. and J. Wiese. 1988. Hydrogeology and Water Resources of the Los Osos
                  Groundwater Basin, San Luis Obispo, California. U.S. Geological Survey Water
                  Resources Investigations Report 88-4081. 112 pp.b:























                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             a,.
























































                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          N












                                                                                                                                                                                     @


                                                                                                                                                                                             3 6668 14108 8072