BOEM is studying submerged paleolandscapes off the Pacific Coast to identify potential archaeological and ecological resources. This effort will guide responsible offshore energy development and protect sensitive cultural and biological areas.
Beneath the waves of the Pacific Coast lies a vast hidden landscape—once dry land—submerged by rising postglacial sea levels over thousands of years. These paleolandscapes likely contain important archaeological resources tied to early human activity and are often linked to biologically rich marine environments. To better understand and protect these submerged cultural and ecological features from potential offshore energy development activities, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) conducted a study titled Archaeological and Biological Assessment of Submerged Landforms off the Pacific Coast.
Funded through a cooperative agreement between BOEM, San Diego State University and other partners, the study was designed to enhance BOEM’s ability to detect and avoid impacting submerged cultural resources and high-productivity marine habitats during offshore energy development. It focused on areas off southern California and central Oregon, synthesizing geological and geophysical data, conducting targeted fieldwork, and refining sea-level models. Researchers examined whether these submerged landforms coincide with ecologically sensitive habitats.
Drawing on methodologies from similar efforts in the Gulf of America and Atlantic regions, this project evaluated and improved current geophysical survey guidelines. It also supported the identification and preservation of Native American archaeological sites eligible for the National Register- on the Pacific OCS, outside of Hawaii.
The study’s findings will inform BOEM’s environmental assessments and consultations under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), Endangered Species Act (ESA), and Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) requirements. It will also support government-to-government consultations with Tribal communities and assist state and Tribal decision-makers in evaluating proposed offshore energy projects.
Ultimately, this research advances both cultural heritage preservation and environmental stewardship by ensuring that the ancient stories and natural systems hidden beneath the Pacific remain protected as we look toward the future of offshore energy development.
The final report will be available in summer/fall 2025.
Read more about the study here: https://espis.boem.gov/study%20profiles/BOEM-ESP-PC-14-04.pdf
-- BOEM --
The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) manages development of U.S. Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) energy, mineral, and geological resources in an environmentally and economically responsible way.