NOAA announces funding to support ocean observing in the Northeast

NOAA's Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) has awarded $2.46 million in competitive grant funding to support ocean observing efforts in the northeast.

Administered by the Northeastern Regional Association of Coastal Ocean Observing Systems, the grants support ocean observing activities from Long Island Sound to the Canadian Maritimes, as well as other projects funded through the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. The funds also support a variety of projects to improve ocean and coastal data and support fisheries and ecosystem management.

The system is one recipient in a series of nationwide IOOS grant-funded projects, totaling $21 million this year. The goal of each regional observing system is to maintain and enhance ocean and coastal observations in the area, making data easier to access and giving planners and policymakers the information needed to improve safety, enhance the economy, and protect the environment. Data from each region will also be available to researchers throughout the country via the national IOOS.

"This award represents NOAA's commitment to implementing the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation Act of 2009 which recognizes the IOOS regional systems as key components of the national effort," said Zdenka Willis, NOAA IOOS program director. "These projects are crafted to meet local customer needs while also contributing to the success of the national effort."

Source: NOAA Headquarters