NOAA seeks comments on Arctic strategy

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is asking the public for comments on its draft Arctic Vision and Strategy. In a May 19 statement the agency said that because of the “profound significance” of the Arctic for the functioning of ecosystems around the world, it “must position itself to respond with quality products, services and scientific research.”

NOAA’s Arctic strategic plan and vision “will ensure that NOAA takes a strategic approach to emerging environmental, economic and national security issues in the Arctic.”

NOAA said it will focus its efforts on forecasting sea ice; strengthening scientific understanding and detection of Arctic climate changes; improving weather and water forecasts and warnings; enhancing international and national partnerships; improving stewardship of management of ocean and coastal resources in the Arctic; and advancing resilient and healthy Arctic communities and economies.

The draft strategic plan is available for review online at www.arctic.noaa.gov/docs/arctic_strat_2010.pdf. Comments will be accepted through June 10 via e-mail at [email protected].

—Petroleum News