Are we there yet? Advancing DNA methods for informing environmental management and policy

Environmental DNA (eDNA) methods are revolutionizing the way we monitor biodiversity in California. However, the adoption of eDNA methods for informing environmental management decision-making has been slowed by a lack of standardization among researchers and poor communication with user communities. To help expediate the transition from research to implementation, we initiated a series of studies to bring the gap between eDNA researchers and environmental managers. These studies ranged across a diversity of habitats and management concerns, from harmful algal blooms to endangered Southern California steelhead. This presentation will review the myriad of successes and obstacles faced when operationalizing a novel tool for routine applications and will highlight future directions for advancing the adoption of eDNA methods.

Speaker: Susanna Theroux, Southern California Coastal Water Research Project

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