Central Coast CRAM
The California Rapid Assessment Method (CRAM) is one of the newest tools being used in the State of California for wetland assessments. It is a standardized method to diagnose the health of the wetland and surrounding habitat by quickly rating a small assessment area. CRAM can be used for any wetland type and results in a score between 25 and 100. It should take two or more trained assessors 1-3 hours per area. The CRAM website is a very comprehensive site where you can learn how CRAM works, view results and publications, look for trainings and more.
To download the newly published CRAM Validation Report, click here
To download the Research Brief of the CRAM Validation Report, click here
To Download the factsheet click here
To download the necessary documents to conduct CRAM assessments click here.
For examples of Structural Patch Types, click here
Moss Landing Marine Laboratories is a CRAM training host. Below are the slideshows used during the training. Viewing the slideshows is NOT equivalent to attending the training in person. The are simply reminders of subjects discussed in the training.
CRAM Introduction at Moss Landing
Riverine Module
Estuarine Module
CRAM Applications
eCRAM training
If you have any questions about CRAM on the Central Coast, please contact Kevin O’Connor at koconnor@mlml.calstate.edu
Below are some assessments done by the trained assessors at Moss Landing Marine Labs Habitat Restoration Group. They are meant to be used as learning guides for people wanting to conduct CRAM assessments. On them you will find the details of where the assessment site is, the score for each metric and why it received that score. These guides are not meant to be used instead of a formal CRAM training session but can be very useful as a supplement to the class or for people who just want to understand how CRAM works without becoming an actual assessor. In the files below we have provided maps and pictures as well as directions to the site. These can be taken out to the field to help with the assessment. When you have completed the assessment email Kevin O’Connor at koconnor@mlml.calstate.edu to get the answer key and explanation.