Beyond the Golden Gate - Oceanography, Geology, Biology, and Environmental Issues in the Gulf of the Farallones

Abstract

Both scientists and decision makers have become increasingly aware of the need to understand the complexity of natural systems when considering actions that affect individual aspects of resources and the environment. The interconnectedness of the physical and biological elements of a natural system is often appreciated in the abstract, but sometimes not as much as it should be in scientific studies. Too frequently, how the interaction of all elements of a system influence the organism, habitat, or process being focused on is given only lip service or general observations. Although not intended to be an integrated study, this report on oceanographic, geological, biological, and environmental aspects of the Gulf of the Farall ones is an excellent example of a study describing the many facets of a complex marine system.