California Ocean Science Trust Internship Program

We are a boundary organization. We work across the traditional boundaries between government, science, and communities to build trust and understanding in ocean and coastal science.

California can rely on us for useful, reliable science for our ocean. Though we are not a state agency, our relationship to California is formalized by the California Ocean Resources Stewardship Act (CORSA), passed in 2000. That statute directs how our board is populated, including State agency representation and nominations submitted from both the University of California and California State University. We also submit annual reports to the State Legislature. This unique arrangement gives California an independent partner who can take the long view.

Working closely with ocean and coastal agencies, we support California’s goal of maintaining a healthy, resilient, and productive ocean for the benefit of current and future generations. On behalf of our partner, the California Ocean Protection Council, we convene and manage their Science Advisory Team. The Executive Director of Ocean Science Trust serves as the Science Advisor to the Ocean Protection Council and co-chairs the Science Advisory Team. Many other state and federal agencies work with us on the ocean issues of importance to California.