NOAA Developing Arctic Vision and Strategy
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In April 2010, NOAA released a draft Arctic Vision and Strategy, which provides a high-level framework and strategic goals to address NOAA's highest priorities in the region. This report articulates a vision for the Arctic based on assumptions that the region will continue to experience dramatic change, become more accessible to human activities, and be a focus of increasing global strategic interest.
NOAA identified six strategic goals:
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Forecast sea ice;
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Strengthen foundational science to understand and observe changes in arctic climate and ecosystems;
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Improve weather and water forecasts and warnings;
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Enhance national and international partnerships;
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Improve the stewardship and management of Arctic Ocean and coastal resources; and
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Advance the development of healthy and resilient communities and economies in the Arctic.
Public comment on the draft report closed 25 June 2010. A final report will be released in November 2010. NOAA will next develop a five-year arctic action plan and budget, anticipating a $10 million initial investment to support this strategy. Implementation of the action plan is scheduled for early summer 2011.
For more information, see: http://www.arctic.noaa.gov/ or contact Tracy Rouleau, NOAA/National Weather Service (tracy [dot] rouleau [at] noaa [dot] gov) .