| Two project components were recently completed, including (a) a study testing the efficacy of field collection methods for preserving DNA, and (b) a study to simulate comparison of newer barcoding data with historic and current data collected via standard benthic macroinvertebrate monitoring methods. Use of 70% ethanol as a sample preservative did not significantly reduce barcoding success for samples stored for up to six months. In addition, the lack of abundance data associated with barcoding methods did not impede application of traditional marine indices. | | 
| | This recently finished project examined how traditional stream health indicators perform in nonperennial streams (a common habitat type in southern California where streams are dry for part of the year). Little modification of current protocols is required in most cases, provided surface flow persists for sufficient duration to allow establishment of benthic macroinvertebrate communities. Several recommendations were issued to the State Water Board to improve monitoring for the full range of nonperennial streams. | |  |
| A new application developed by SCCWRP transforms environmental monitoring data into easy-to-understand scores, which are displayed on a regional map. Once finalized, it can be used in place of more laborious data calculation and visualization methods. | | 
| | Concentrated brine from applications like seawater desalination and water reclamation poses a novel wastewater disposal issue due to its unique properties. Over the last year, SCCWRP facilitated an expert panel to address many of the State Water Board's questions about brine discharge management. Their final report details how to minimize the environmental effects of brine disposal. | | 
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