This interdisciplinary course integrates the legal, science, and policy dimensions of characterizing and managing our coastal resources in California. The focus is on the land-sea interface as the class explores contemporary coastal land use and marine resource decision-making. Among the focal issues it examines are: coastal pollution, public health, ecosystem management; public access; private development; local community and state infrastructure; natural systems and significant threats; resource extraction; and conservation, mitigation and restoration. Students will learn the fundamental physics, chemistry, and biology of the coastal zone, tools for exploring data collected in the coastal ocean (time series analysis), as well as the institutional framework that shapes public and private decision-making affecting coastal resources. This course takes a "place-based" approach. Special Instructions: Students will be expected to participate fully in field studies designed to provide a personal understanding.