This protocol narrative outlines the rationale, sampling design and methods proposed for intertidal monitoring in the North Coast and Cascades Network (NCCN) as part of the Inventory and Monitoring Program. In 2000, the National Park Service initiated a long-term ecological monitoring program to track key indicators of ecosystem health, or vital signs. These indicators are measurable parameters that may provide warning of changes that can impair the long-term stability and character of natural park ecosystems (NPS 2001).