OceAn science OceAn science OceAn science

Addressing
Near-Term Priorities
Initial plans have been developed to address the current set of near-term priorities.
Although these plans were developed by the federal agencies, successful implementation
relies on the coordinated efforts of a variety of sectors, including state agencies, regional
initiatives, academic collaborations, and industry partnerships.
Forecasting the Response of Coastal Ecosystems
to Persistent Forcing and Extreme Events
The objective of this near-term priority is to provide managers and decision-makers with
the tools needed to prepare for and respond to extreme weather events, natural disasters,
and changing natural and human influences. This activity will require the development
and integration of predictions of environmental conditions with a full assessment of the
vulnerability and resilience of coastal ecosystems and communities.
Approach
This effort will focus on several regional systems and support end-to-end development
and integration of observations, research, and forecast models leading to decision-support
tools. Research on ecosystem and community conditions, processes, and responses
to hazards and forcings, supported by observations, will enhance forecast capabilities
and provide the necessary inputs for model development. Enhancement and integration
of existing observing capabilities and infrastructure will ensure system interoperability
and availability of critical observational data required to support model development,
operational forecasts, and decision-support tools. These activities will leverage and advance
national efforts to develop and integrate observational and modeling systems while
addressing regional needs. This effort will coordinate and integrate existing observational,
research, and monitoring programs from several federal agencies, reflecting their mission-focused
roles and existing programs. Agency contributions necessary to address this
priority include:
75