Ocean acidification is a significant problem that is currently impacting Oregonians, and more widespread impacts are predicted for the future. Steps are already being taken to respond to our region's acute vulnerability to OA.  Oregon-based scientists and managers are rapidly expanding our understanding of ocean chemistry dynamics related to OA and hypoxia. 

What are Oregon researchers and managers doing to address ocean acidification and hypoxia?

• Ocean observing systems– networks that collect critical real-time data– are being expanded as resources allow. This real-time data, in addition to data from other sources, is used by the 20-member West Coast Ocean Acidification and Hypoxia Science Panel includes 5 Oregon-based researchers and is working to synthesize relevant OA science information for use by managers and policymakers.
• The Institute for Natural Resources at OSU (INR) is working with the California Ocean Science Trust (CalOST) to facilitate collaboration between scientists and man-agers and to translate and apply panel science findings via educational and outreach materials for broader audiences.
• Addressing ocean acidification is a key goal of the West Coast Governors Alliance on Ocean Health, the emerging West Coast Regional Ocean Partnership, and thePacific Coast Collaborative, three regional platforms to address ocean management issues facing the West Coast states.
• Since Oregon and the west coast are particularly vulnerable, state managers and policymakers are engaging their federal counterparts to identify ways to collaborate on science, monitoring and outreach to mitigate OA effects. For more information, refer to this pdf Background Document on Oregon OA initiatives (1.35 MB) .