Survey of Oceanographic and Meteorological Parameters of Importance to the Site Selection of an Ocean Food and Energy Farm (OFEF) in the Eastern Pacific

Oceanographic and meteorological parameters necessary for selection of productive Ocean Food and Energy Farm (OFEF) sites are presented and compared for the eastern Pacific Ocean. Optimum values for biological, chemical, physical, and engineering requirements are estimated for both farm structures and the giant kelp Macrocystis pyrifera, the proposed OFEF crop plant. From these data, requirements, and limitations, preliminary site selection criteria are established. Selection candidate Phase 1 OFEF and future farm sites are given after a thorough review of pertinent data and literature. It is determined that within the area studied, the southern California offshore region from approximately 32 deg 30 min N to 34 deg 30 min. N is best suited for siting preliminary Ocean Farms. Detailed maps and tables of currents, ocean temperatures, winds, nutrient concentrations and other parameters are presented. (Author)