The critical science gaps addressed by each strategic objective are identified by a Roman numeral and capital letter corresponding to the appropriate system component and critical science gap. Science Task numbers are indicative of their ranked priority. Subtask objectives are identified by a number that corresponds to the task number and a lower-case letter.

I. Geology and Geomorphology Critical Science Gaps

1. Seafloor and subsurface mapping (bathymetry, habitat, sediments, seismic, geomorphology)
2. Pre-anthropogenic and historical environmental reconstruction
3. Sediment budget and movement
4. Estuary linkage to the Gulf of Mexico
5. Land use, land cover, and urbanization history and mapping
6. Digital elevation, topo-bathy mapping/modeling of drainage basin
7. Coastal change and hazards

II. Water and Sediment Quality Critical Science Gaps

1. Salinity
2. Toxic chemicals
3. Contaminant “hot spots” (PAHs, DDT, chlordane, dioxin, nickel, chromium, arsenic, tributyl tin, etc.)
4. Sediment/water interface processes
5. Suspended particles

III. Hydrodynamics Critical Science Gaps

1. Groundwater inflow and quality
2. Natural and anthropogenic flow alteration
3. Water circulation and residence times
4. Wave energy impacts
5. Changes in freshwater inflow

IV. Ecosystem Structure and Function Critical Elements

1. Habitat distribution, degradation, loss, and restoration
2. Critical controls on seagrass health and distribution
3. Critical controls on wetland health and distribution
4. Benthic and planktonic productivity, carbon and nutrient cycling