MOSS LANDING

• USMLG
• Latitude: 36.80302
• Longitude: -121.7859
• US West Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

Moss Landing is a well-known marine port located on the central coast of California, in Monterey County. Situated approximately halfway between Santa Cruz and Monterey, Moss Landing serves various roles, including acting as a commercial fishing hub, industrial center, and tourist attraction. Below is a detailed description and some key specifications of Moss Landing:

Geographic and General Information:

• Location: Central California coast, Monterey County.
• Coordinates: Approximately 36.8005° N latitude and 121.7867° W longitude.
• Adjacent Ocean: Pacific Ocean.
• Accessibility: Easily accessible from Highway 1, a major coastal route.

Infrastructure and Facilities:

• Harbor: Protected natural harbor with breakwaters that shield it from the Pacific Ocean's direct impact.
• Docks and Piers: Equipped with multiple docks and piers for commercial fishing, recreational boating, and research activities.
• Marina: The Moss Landing Harbor District operates a marina with ample berthing options for various types of vessels.
• Industrial Areas: Features zones dedicated to industrial activities, including processing plants and storage facilities, primarily for the fishing industry.
• Research Facilities: Home to notable research institutions such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) and the Moss Landing Marine Laboratories (MLML).

Commercial and Recreational Use:

• Commercial Fishing: A significant portion of the port’s activity revolves around commercial fishing, with vessels frequently bringing in catches like squid, crab, and various fish species.
• Recreational Boating: The marina caters to recreational boaters, offering slips, maintenance facilities, and services such as fueling.
• Tourism: The area attracts tourists with activities like whale watching, kayaking, and visits to nearby wildlife areas.

Key Features:

• Water Depth: Varies, with deeper channels to accommodate larger fishing and research vessels. The entrance channel typically maintains a depth conducive to commercial operations.
• Navigation: Buoys, markers, and breakwaters provide guidance for vessels entering and leaving the harbor.
• Environmental Considerations: Known for its rich marine biodiversity, the region often engages in conservation and environmental monitoring efforts.
• Economic Impact: Plays a vital role in the regional economy, particularly through the fishing industry, marine research, and tourism.

Governance and Management:

• Harbor Authority: Managed by the Moss Landing Harbor District, which oversees operations, maintenance, and development initiatives.
• Regulations: Subject to federal, state, and local regulations concerning environmental protection, marine safety, and commercial operations.

Challenges and Developments:

• Siltation: Periodic dredging is necessary to maintain adequate channel depths.
• Environmental Impacts: Balancing industrial activity with environmental preservation is an ongoing priority.
• Infrastructure Upgrades: Continued investment in infrastructure improvements to support commercial and recreational activities.

In summary, Moss Landing is a multifaceted marine port that supports a robust fishing industry, facilitates significant marine research, and acts as a hub for recreational and eco-tourism activities in Central California.