CCMA's Chemical Impacts Team (CIT) conducts research and monitoring to evaluate indicators of coastal environmental quality. CIT then uses those findings to make assessments and forecasts of ecological conditions.

On-going long term monitoring activities began in 1984 as part of the National Status and Trends Program (NS&T) , and include chemical, biological and associated physical measures in coastal waters, especially estuaries.

Research and evaluation of new technologies, emerging contaminants, and environmental indicators are conducted to enhance our ability to assess and forecast coastal conditions.