West Coast Estuaries Explorer

West Coast Estuaries Explorer, a tool designed to engage a broad range of users with detailed information about estuaries along the U.S. West Coast.  CBI developed this tool in partnership with the Pacific Marine & Estuarine Fish Habitat Partnership (PMEP). The partnership is supported by NOAA and the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission (PSMFC).  The Explorer includes aerial images for each of the estuaries in Washington, Oregon, and California. 

These highly dynamic systems, where rivers meet the ocean, provide many important ecosystem services. They provide essential habitat for a wide range of species, including fish, shellfish, shrimp, and crabs. Estuaries have also been significantly altered and degraded by human activities. Many along the West Coast are in poor condition or have lost significant habitat.

This viewer allows you explore estuaries along the coastline of Washington, Oregon, and California. Learn more about estuaries and their role in providing habitat for key species. Get involved to help restore these important ecosystems.