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Committee on a Science Plan for the North Pacific Research Board Statement of Task
The NRC study committee will assist the NPRB in developing a science plan that (1) is comprehensive and long range (10-20 years), (2) identifies major research themes, with emphasis on marine resource management issues, (3) is flexible, dynamic, and able to adapt to new research and monitoring findings, (4) is responsive to the vision, mission and goals of the NPRB and addresses the elements of a science plan identified as important by the NPRB, (5) builds on past and ongoing research programs of the Federal government, the State of Alaska, universities, and other relevant entities, (6) has a high probability of furthering the goals and objectives of the NPRB and maintaining awareness of the need to sustain a variety of marine resources and (7) is consistent with NPRB enabling legislation.
In addition, the committee should consider questions such as the appropriate balance between process studies and time-series studies, the role of modeling, the availability and usefulness of proxy and historical data, coordination with other activities (including international activities), and any other issues related to assuring the program has a strong strategic vision and sound management and oversight. To guide the NPRB as it develops its science plan, the committee will:
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Identify broad research themes in the North Pacific, Bering Sea, and Arctic Ocean region, through discussions and a workshop.
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Conduct a series of site visits in Alaska to gather further input on the research themes.
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Provide supporting information and recommendations for achieving the desired attributes of the plan.
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Prepare an interim report that outlines the components of a successful long-term science plan and provides guidance to NPRB as it develops its plan, drawing on insights gained from past reviews of similar science plans to help the NPRB avoid known difficulties and pitfalls.
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Subsequently review the science plan drafted by the NPRB in light of the identified research themes and overall guidance provided in the interim report, making any necessary suggestions for improvement.
