Data Access

MLPA Kelp Forest Dataset

MLPA Kelp Forest Dataset contains monitoring data for giant kelp forest ecosystems as part of the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) initiatives. The data includes biological observations of fish, invertebrates, and algae, as well as physical characteristics of the reef environment. These surveys are essential for evaluating the effectiveness of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and understanding long-term changes in kelp forest community structure along the California coast.

We strongly encourage collaboration with the scientists who collect and manage these data and co-authorship when appropriate, and request that the Data User contact the dataset authors to minimize duplicative efforts. The Data User should realize that these data are likely being actively used by others for ongoing research and that coordination may be necessary to prevent duplicate publication. Please use this form as an initial method of contact.

The Data User is urged to contact the authors of these data if any questions about methodology or results occur. The Data User has an ethical obligation to cite the data source appropriately in any publication or product that results from its use, and notify the dataset authors. A recommended citation for the data package is available from the download page. Please send copies of any published manuscript based on these data to the data contact and data creator. The Data User should be aware that data are updated periodically and it is the responsibility of the Data User to check for new versions of the data. Extensive efforts are made to ensure that online data are accurate and up to date, but the authors will not take responsibility for any errors that may exist in data provided online. Furthermore, the Data User assumes all responsibility for errors in analysis or judgment resulting from use of the data. The data authors and the repository where these data were obtained shall not be liable for damages resulting from any use or misinterpretation of the data.