Subtidal Kelp Forest Uniform Point Contact(UPC) Survey

UPC surveys were conducted annually at 12 sites from Hopkins(Monterey Peninsula) to Cambria Rock(San Luis Obispo County). Percent spatial cover of invertebrate species and algae was estimated along each of the 30m x 2m x 2m transects. Each site consists of two areas and each area consists of 2 transects. Substratum characteristics were also documented. Specifically, substratum type, physical relief , and percent cover of space-occupying organisms were noted. Lists of nonmobile, benthic invertebrates (approx. 50 species) and algae (approx. 10 species) were also gathered.