Reconstructing the Historic Abundance of Ocean Life

This project uses paleontological, archaeological, historical and ecological records to provide examples of past marine life abundance in six estuaries and coastal bays in the United States: Massachusetts Bay, Delaware Bay, Chesapeake Bay, Pamlico Sound, Galveston Bay and San Francisco Bay. The research provides a basic reference point from which to determine meaningful management and conservation goals and to inform policy makers of the current state of the coastal ocean.