By using Community Science, we can use King Tides to help determine how climate change is affecting our tide levels, what high tides will look like in the future, and how high tides can threaten our coastlines.

We are looking for Community Scientists all along the coastline to help us collect data on King Tides!

But what are King Tides?

“While the term “King Tide” isn’t a scientific term, it is used to describe very high tides, caused when there is alignment of the gravitational pull between sun, moon, and Earth. When King Tides occur during floods or storms, water levels can rise higher and have the potential to cause great damage to the coastline and coastal property. King tides occur naturally and regularly, are predictable and expected, and are not an everyday occurrence.” – California King Tides Project Website

When:

• Thursday, January 11, 2024
• Friday, January 12, 2024
• Friday, February 9, 2024

How:

No matter where you are along the California coast, you can participate in this easy community science program! All you will need is a camera phone with Location Services turned on.

1. Find your local high tide time.
2. Visit the coastline, bay, or delta (check your surroundings to make sure you and the local wildlife are safe*).
3. Turn on your phone’s location services for your camera and take your photo!
   • The best photos will show the water level next to a landmark of some kind such as a cliff, bridge, sea wall, etc.
4. Send your Community Science data (the photos) to USC SeaGrant.

*Safety: We want both you and our local wildlife to be safe while you participate in this project.

• Please make sure to give local wildlife the proper space.
• Mind your step! Wear proper shoes and pay close attention to wet/slippery areas as well as any sea life that may be hiding under your feet.
• Use proper sun protection and drink plenty of water (even in the winter).