Monterey Peninsula Water Supply Project

Service: Physical Processes

In support of an environmental impact assessment, AMS staff investigate the impact of brine discharge from a proposed desalinization plant into the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary by conducting oceanographic modeling of the bay. Oceanographic data are collected to establish baseline hydrology conditions at the proposed outfall location.  Spreading and dilution of salinity plumes were modeled using different oceanic climate scenarios.  AMS staff also assess marine biological impacts based on the outcome of the physical processes modeling of salinity plumes.