A Decade of Remarkable Change: Heatwaves, HABs, Hypoxia, and Other Ocean Changes off the California coast

Over the past decade, the ocean off California has undergone fundamental shifts. Understanding and responding to these changes requires long-term observations that span the entire marine ecosystem. The CalCOFI Conference 2026, A Decade of Remarkable Change: Heatwaves, HABs, Hypoxia, and Other Ocean Changes off the California Coast, will reflect on this eventful decade, including the 10-year anniversary of the 2014–2016 “Blob.” The conference will explore the trends and impacts of ocean acidification and hypoxia (OAH), harmful algal blooms (HABs), extreme events (e.g., marine heatwaves and coastal wildfires), marine pollution (e.g., plastics, DDT and other persistent pollutants, and toxins), and other human-sourced inputs (e.g., nutrients) on marine ecosystems and fisheries. 

We invite speakers to assess the biological, chemical, physical, and human dimensions of these changes, explore responses to them, and consider how these shifts can be understood within the broader context of CalCOFI’s history.  Contributions may also showcase advances in science and technology related to ecosystem monitoring, such as eDNA, in situ plankton imaging and uncrewed sampling platforms, and how these tools are informing research and management. Sessions will consider potential connections to offshore ocean industries, such as wind energy and aquaculture, as well as the broader blue economy. The CalCOFI Conference 2026 seeks to advance our collective understanding of ecosystem resilience, guide adaptive management strategies, and chart pathways for responding to ongoing and future changes in the California Current.