Book Description

A detailed oceanographic survey of the coastal waters between Monterey Bay and San Francisco Bay, California, was conducted from 10 through 18 May 1969. Measurements of beam transmittance, sound velocity, temperature, and particulate count were obtained. Over 500 water samples were taken for particulate analysis. The optical properties of this region were found to be very complex. The waters appeared to be affected by flow from San Francisco Bay, littoral material, upwelling, and possibly sewage outfalls during the survey. A greater volume of water with low transmissivity and high particle count existed in the northern region of the survey area than in the southern region. An eddy system between Monterey Bay and Point Ano Nuevo was suggested. Approximately 90 percent of the particles affecting beam transmittance were less than 12 microns in diameter. Particle sizes were found to decrease with increased depths. A fairly good correlation of beam transmittance with particle count was observed except in near shore areas. (Author).