Management considerations for establishing a coastal acidification monitoring system from U.S. Coastal Acidification Networks

Ocean acidification (OA), caused by the uptake of anthropogenic carbon dioxide, is a concern for ocean resource users in coastal regions where the phenomenon is compounded by variable processes. Sustained OA monitoring systems are critical for characterization of baseline ocean conditions and identification of changes and impacts to coastal ecosystems and communities. Establishing an OA monitoring network is best accomplished through iterative planning, sustained funding, and comprehensive understanding of the coastal system. This paper offers decision-making considerations for entities interested in establishing a local to regional scale OA observing system. Such considerations include which carbon system parameters can be measured in each system, which sensors and platforms will provide applicable information for interested partners, and best practices for observing data management. Because every region faces unique circumstances, we present context-specific examples of effective decision-making processes from established U.S. OA observing networks. These regional case studies offer information on specific scientific questions, observing techniques, and methodology employed to establish and manage OA observations in the coastal zone.