A New Way to Explore Estuary Program Conservation Efforts

The Estuary Program and our partners implement projects in restoration, monitoring, and education to protect and restore Morro Bay and the lands that surround it. Our actions are guided by our Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP), a strategic roadmap for the program. To help share highlights of our program’s 30 years of work in the watershed, we’re excited to introduce our new interactive StoryMap, From Plan to Progress: CCMP in Action.

What is the CCMP?

*The CCMP guides efforts such as protection of sensitive species like the salt marsh bird’s beak pictured above.*

When Morro Bay was accepted into the National Estuary Program in 1995, one of our first tasks was to develop a CCMP. This management plan identifies the issues and challenges facing Morro Bay and presents action plans to address them. Learn more about the CCMP here.

How to Use the StoryMap

*This screenshot of the StoryMap shows the Morro Bay watershed map with a description of our efforts to reduce erosion from rural roads.*

A StoryMap is a tool for visually conveying data, usually through the use of maps. These dynamic webpages are designed to showcase the real-world impact of our work in Morro Bay by highlighting recent projects. To navigate the From Plan to Progress: CCMP in Action StoryMap:

Scroll through sections to explore different projects and initiatives.

Click on interactive maps to view project locations and impacts.

Engage with photos and descriptions to learn more about conservation efforts.

Use the navigation menu to jump to specific topics of interest.

Explore the StoryMap now and discover how the CCMP is shaping conservation in Morro Bay!

What will you learn?

The StoryMap provides details on the CCMP, describes our program focus areas, and features some of our recent projects. The following are a few project highlights from the StoryMap.

Land Protection – Chorro Creek Ecological Reserve

Acquired to protect it as open space, this land at the base of Hollister Peak helps reduce sediment transport, improve steelhead habitat, and recharge groundwater. The site was originally a floodplain, and restoration efforts have reconnected the creek with its natural flow, improving resilience against erosion and supporting native vegetation.

Water Quality Monitoring – Spring Bioassessment

Tracking benthic macroinvertebrates provides insight into water quality trends. These tiny organisms act as biological indicators, helping our scientists evaluate long-term changes in stream health. The Estuary Program collaborates with volunteers to conduct annual assessments to collect data that informs management decisions.

Ecosystem Conservation – Eelgrass Restoration

The Estuary Program has worked with partners to conduct monitoring, research, and restoration of eelgrass in the bay. Vital for marine life, eelgrass serves as essential habitat for fish, invertebrates, and migratory birds while also improving water clarity and sequestering carbon. Our program’s ongoing monitoring and adaptive management strategies work to protected this valuable habitat in the bay.

Education and Outreach – Nature Center

The Nature Center welcomes thousands of visitors annually, offering interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences. The center, which is free to the public, provides educational programs for schools, hosts guided tours, and features displays on local wildlife and conservation efforts. The center inspires stewardship and encourages public involvement in conservation efforts.

A Living Resource

*View of Estuary from the Elfin Forest (2016)*

From Plan to Progress: CCMP in Action will continue to be updated with new project updates to ensure that our community and partners always have access to information on the latest Estuary Program efforts in Morro Bay.

Help us protect and restore the Morro Bay estuary!

Donate to the Estuary Program today and support our work in the field, the lab, and beyond.
The Estuary Program is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. We depend on funding from grants and generous donors to continue our work.
Support us by purchasing estuary-themed gear from ESTERO. This locally owned and operated company donates 20% of proceeds from its Estuary clothing line and 100% of Estuary decal proceeds to the Estuary Program. Thank you, ESTERO!
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Mar 07, 2025