This research is focused on quantitative studies of organic carbon diagenesis in rapidly accumulating coastal and upper slope sediments. The intermeshing goals reflect the central processes associated with accumulation and recycling of organic materials in all organic-rich marine environments. The goals are: 1) to quantify seasonal variations in the sources and input rates of organic matter to coastal sediments, 2) to understand the role of organic carbon source in controlling the rate and extent of organic carbon degradation, 3) to elucidate the role of bacterial assimilation of DOC ("secondary production") in the sediment carbon cycle, and 4) to determine the rates and pathways of organic carbon fermentation.
