Much of the data gathered in the marsh is not systematically organized or readily available to researchers. The ecosystem monitoring program proposed in the draft management plan would bring together data from a variety of sources and package it in an accessible format. Unfortunately, long-term funding for ongoing monitoring and research projects is difficult to obtain. Research grants tend to provide funding for only a year or two. The study demonstrated high concentrations of nutrients, particularly nitrates, in both surface and groundwater.
Excess nitrates can stimulate rapid growth of algae in the marsh channels.
Page believes that illegal discharges from greenhouses or other agricultural activities in the watershed may be contributing to the problem of excess nutrients, because he observed periodic rapid increases in nutrient levels in his samples. A long-term monitoring program might enable him to pinpoint the source or sources of these periodic discharges. Management programs designed to benefit endangered species in the marsh can also be valuable sources of information about the entire ecosystem. Monitoring programs are essential for effective management of sensitive habitats, such as the Carpinteria Salt Marsh. The reserve has accumulated a wealth of information about the marsh ecosystem and is now in a position to propose extending its management responsibilities to the entire marsh.