The Global Ocean Observing System: Users, Benefits, and Priorities (1997)

The U.S. GOOS interagency ad hoc Working Group is very. pleased with the report of the recent NAS/NRC Committee :o Review Plans for a Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS;. We particularly appreciate :he timeliness of the report:, which allows us :o begin quickly :o address the recommendations.

The Working Group has considered the recommendation for a mechanism to provide review and advice in the further development and implementation of GOOS and for the need to formalize Interactions with the industrial/commercial sector. we also are particularly interested in assistance in further articulating the operational concept of GOOS and the products, services, and mechanisms for data and product dissemination to accomplish these objectives. We wash to consider a follow on to the earlier multi-Board Committee established at the request of Under Secretary Baker to provide advice explicitly to the agencies involved (including NSF, NASA, Navy, EPA, DOE, USGS, MMS, ARPA, and State, as well as NOAA). We seek continuing input. advice, review, and help on all aspects of GOOS, but are not clear on the NRC's role in defining the industrial and operational aspects.

We would appreciate receiving a proposal and budget for FY95 for a onetime project, perhaps led by the Ocean Studies Board, but composed of NAS/NRC representatives of all relevant Board who can provide both scientific advice and the requisite linkage with industry and operations and users. Financial support would be available in FY95 for the work of this multi-Board Committee. One aspect of this effort, which should be completed by June 30, 1995, is to help us define the mechanism for continued broad advice and review.

Priority areas for U.S. GOOS in FY95 are listed below. Your proposal should describe approaches to be followed and anticipated products to be provided which reflect a focus on these activities.