Marine Biology Services

1. Marine Biology Services
Chambers Group’s marine background dates back to the beginning of the company in 1978 when
marine biology services were among the first performed.
Its marine history ranges from surveys of coastal waters
and streams, to inter-tidal and SCUBA surveys and
sampling the offshore environment to depths of over 1,400
feet. Chambers Group also has decades of experience in
analyzing wetland habitats and developing mitigation and
restoration plans.
Chambers Group conducts marine studies in accordance with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and
National Marine Fisheries Service protocols. Studies of the oceans, bays, harbors, wetlands,
streams, and lakes require specialized sampling and analysis techniques. Marine sampling
presents formidable challenges to the investigator.
Chambers Group has been a leader in the development of equipment and methodologies
for environmental studies in the ocean, and among the leaders in using manned
submersibles and remote-operated vehicles to study the deeper waters of the ocean.
In water deeper than 100 feet, remote sampling and observation techniques must be used. In
shallower water, SCUBA diving is often used for observation and sampling. Chambers Group
helped pioneer the development of sampling equipment for underwater surveys. For example,
Chambers Group designed a specialized underwater photographic device that takes excellent
photographs, even under rough and dirty conditions. Chambers Group maintains a scientific
diving program that adheres to the SCUBA diving requirements of the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers.
Marine Biology Capabilities include:
• Sampling and Surveying
• Mitigation Planning and Marine Habitat Restoration
• Ecological Risk Assessment
• Wetlands Studies and Restoration
• Jurisdictional Delineations
• Marine Project Permitting
• Vernal Pools
• Laboratory Facilities
• CEQA/NEPA Documentation for Coastal Projects

2. Project Examples:
Ecosystem Planning, Feasibility of Alternatives, EIR/EIS for Bolsa Chica Wetlands
Restoration Project – AWARD, OUTSTANDING ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
DOCUMENT, California Assn. Of Environmental Professionals
The goal of the wetlands restoration was to retain and enhance, to the extent feasible, the existing
fish and wildlife resources, such that the ecosystem would be natural, biologically diverse,
productive, and estuarine in nature. Chambers Group prepared the EIR/EIS document, Draft and
Final. Key environmental issues included over-wintering habitat for migratory species, nesting
habitat for migratory shorebirds and seabirds and endangered species, modifications to the
hydraulic regime to meet objectives, interests of contiguous property owners including the
County of Orange, interests of concerned recreational groups (including surfers), and the phase
out of oil extraction operations
Colorado Lagoon Restoration Project, Long Beach, CA - The Colorado Lagoon Restoration
Project developed alternatives to improve the water quality and restore habitat in Colorado
Lagoon in Long Beach. Chambers Group described the existing habitat types in the lagoon,
evaluated the habitat benefits of the restoration alternatives, and prepared a CEQA Initial Study
for the project.
Goleta Beach County Park, Long-Term Protection Plan, Santa Barbara County Parks -
Prepared an EIR for the Long-Term Protection Plan to protect the uses and resources of the park
as well as be sustainable over 20 years. The plan was needed because erosion associated with
major storm events threatened the park and its infrastructure. The EIR analyzed changes in the
environment that could occur as a result of all phases of each of the co-equal projects, including
planning, implementing, and monitoring the changes. The EIR addressed both the site-specific
and cumulative impacts of the proposed projects and recommended potentially feasible
mitigation measures that could be incorporated into the project to reduce or eliminate adverse
environmental effects.
Upper Newport Bay Ecosystem Restoration Project, Newport Beach, CA – Chambers Group
worked closely with the USACE – LA District to determine alternatives for the restoration of the
Upper Newport Bay ecosystem. Dredging and restoration was necessary to return this area to
levels that could support enhanced habitat and attract associated wildlife. After development of a
range of alternative bay configurations, the detailed project description and the Final EIS/EIR
were completed. Chambers Group also prepared a Biological Assessment (BA) to address
potential impacts to listed species.
Contact Chambers Group for a consultation on your next project!
Cimberly Gonzales
5 Hutton Centre Dr., Suite 750
Santa Ana, Ca 92707
949-261-5414 ext. 7209 office
949-275-3887 cell
cgonzales@chambersgroupinc.com