Hurricane Season to be Busier than Predicted
Atlantic hurricane season could see more activity than originally anticipated, as forecasters now say an above-normal season is likely. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has updated its 2017 hurricane season outlook, as forecasters are now predicting a higher likelihood of an above-normal season with increased predictions for the number of named storms and major hurricanes. The season has the potential to be extremely active, and could be the most active since 2010. Forecasters now say there is a 60-percent chance of an above-normal season (compared to the
US Forecaster Predicts Below-average Atlantic Hurricane Season
The Atlantic Ocean will see a below-average number of hurricanes this season due to cooler seas and a strong El Niño effect, the U.S. government weather forecaster announced on Wednesday. The forecast calls for six to 11 tropical storms this year, with three to six reaching hurricane status, including possibly two major hurricanes with winds reaching at least 111 miles-per-hour (178 kph), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said at a press conference in New Orleans. (Reporting by David Adams; Editing by Lisa Von Ahn)
NASA Animations Depict the Formation of Ocean Garbage Patches
Researchers at NASA's Scientific Visualization Studio have produced several animations to depict the formation of garbage patches throughout the world’s oceans. Using two models, one simulating the movement of particles propelled by surface currents and the other tracking the migration of floating buoys distributed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) over the last 35-years, the researchers were able to identify and illustrate how debris in the oceans gathers into garbage patches around the world. The animations are available here.
NOAA: Noise Affecting Marine Mammals
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) seeks comments on proposed changes to its draft Guidance for Assessing the Effects of Anthropogenic Sound on Marine Mammal Hearing. Comments must be received by 30 March. 81 Fed. Reg. 14095 [located at https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2016-03-16/pdf/2016-05886.pdf] (3/16/16). (Source: Bryant's Maritime Blog - http://brymar-consulting.com)
Interstate Plastics Supply NOAA Reef Monitoring Materials
Interstate Plastics has been chosen by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, as their primary supplier of PVC plastics for use in Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures, commonly referred to as ARMS. ARMS mimic the complexity of coral reefs to attract and collect colonizing invertebrates and provide a systematic, consistent, and comparable method to monitor cryptic reef diversity. ARMS enable researchers to obtain information using molecular techniques, particularly for small, cryptic organisms that constitute the bulk of reef diversity. Interstate Plastics has provided
Great Lakes Marine Sanctuary Bill to be Tabled
the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation's (NMSF) 12th annual Ocean Awards Gala June 10, 2014, that he is introducing the Great Lakes Cultural Heritage Assessment Act next month, informs the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation (NMSF). Sen. Levin's proposed bill would direct the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to identify underwater areas in the Great Lakes that possess significant historical and archaeological resources and consider recommendation for designation as national marine sanctuaries. The Senator's new bill follows yesterday's announcement from Counselor to the President
TerraSond Awarded 5-year NOAA Survey Contract
TerraSond has been selected by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to provide hydrographic surveying services anywhere in the U.S under a new five-year contract, the company announced today. Under the new contract beginning in 2015, TerraSond will provide comprehensive, modern hydrographic surveys in assigned areas to support NOAA’s nautical charting mission, which includes the updating of charts in critical areas for navigation safety. TerraSond has been providing hydrographic survey services continuously for NOAA since 1998 under consecutive multi-year contracts.
C&C Technologies Wins NOAA Survey Contract
C & C Technologies has been awarded a new five-year contract by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to perform hydrographic surveys throughout U.S. coastal waters. “Our work with NOAA began in 1998 surveying San Francisco Bay near Alcatraz Island and the Oakland Bay Bridge,” stated Thomas Chance, President of C & C Technologies, Inc. This is now the third five-year survey contract NOAA has awarded to C & C. I am pleased with the confidence NOAA has shown in us and for the opportunity to continue supporting the Office of Coast Survey.
Presentations Illustrate Dimensions of Accurate Marine Mapping
support. MarineCadastre.gov allows users to create and customize marine maps, share maps and data, and address critical planning details with partners. MarineCadastre.gov was co-developed by the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Coastal Services Center. noaa.gov
Sonardyne Appoints Non-Executive Chairman
is retiring after 16 years with the company. Ralph is an internationally recognized figure within the offshore and oceanographic industries. He has extensive senior and Board level international experience with a diverse portfolio of organizations including the BMT Group, the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Fugro and is actively engaged with professional and learned societies such as the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) the Society for Underwater Technology (SUT) and the Marine Technology Society (MTS). Using his experience, Ralph will
JMS Hires Business Development VP
has joined Juliet Marine Systems (JMS) as Vice President of Business Development and Marketing, the company announced today. Manley brings over 20 years of experience in the marine technology sector including roles at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). He has also led growth of sales and development of new products at both startup companies and public corporations. At JMS, Manley will lead all aspects of sales, marketing and business development. In addition to his new role at JMS, Manley is involved in the
Anderson Joins EdgeTech
Erik Anderson has joined EdgeTech as Hydrographic Product Engineer based in the company’s Boca Raton, Fla. office. Previously with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Office of Coast Survey, Anderson brings extensive hydrographic expertise to the organization. He has a Bachelor of Science in Ocean Engineering from Florida Atlantic University, Master of Science in Hydrography and Category “A” International Hydrographic Certification. Anderson has over 10 years of experience in the field of marine surveying working with equipment such as side
Liquid Robotics, NOAA Sign Forecasting Agreement
Liquid Robotics and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced the signing of a multiyear, Cooperative Research & Development Agreement (CRADA) designed to advance ocean observations to improve U.S. weather forecasting, fisheries management and environmental monitoring. The NOAA/Liquid Robotics CRADA combines the significant product capabilities of the Wave Glider, a revolutionary, wave powered unmanned ocean robot, with NOAA’s engineering, data analysis and modeling expertise for applications that will have long-term benefits to the general public. "Over
Marine Ecologist Receives Top National Academy of Sciences Honor
individuals “who have worked tirelessly to promote science for the benefit of humanity.” Lubchenco’s selection as the 2017 Public Welfare Medal recipient was announced January 30. Oregon State University marine ecologist Lubchenco is the former National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Administrator. “It’s an incredible honor, especially since it comes at a time in history when it’s more important than ever for scientists to engage with the public in meaningful ways and demonstrate how our work improves people’s lives
Arctic Ecosystem Study Launched in US, Canadian Waters
research initiative coordinated and planned by BOEM in conjunction with its federal and private sector partners: U.S. Arctic Research Commission, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System, Marine Mammal Commission, National Science Foundation, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of Naval Research, and Shell Oil Company. BOEM Acting Director Walter Cruickshank, said, “With widespread interest in the Arctic, including potential oil and gas leasing and development, we’re looking to significantly expand our knowledge of the Beaufort
Spinrad Named NOAA Chief Scientist
MTS President-elect Dr. Richard (Rick) Spinrad will be stepping down from his MTS position as he is named chief scientist of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). President Barack Obama announced the appointment May 8, 2014. Spinrad’s appointment was announced among that of several others also nominated to key positions. President Obama said, “I am honored that these talented individuals have decided to join this administration and serve our country. I look forward to working with them in the months and years to come.” Dr. Spinrad will bring over 35 years
First US National Ocean Exploration Program Report
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Aquarium of the Pacific have just released their co-authored report detailing plans for the nation’s first ocean exploration program. The report is the result of Ocean Exploration 2020, the first-ever forum gathering over 100 ocean explorers and other experts, which was held at the Southern California aquarium and organized by NOAA and Aquarium officials. The report prioritizes geographic areas to be explored and details partnerships, technologies, and other components of this comprehensive national plan. . NOAA officials and
Post Spill: Analyzing the Water in Honolulu Harbor
Representatives from the Coast Guard National Strike Force, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration conducted water sampling as part of a joint effort to analyze the effects of the molasses spill in Honolulu Harbor Sunday. The combined team departed Coast Guard Station Honolulu Sunday morning aboard a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium. The National Strike Force crewmembers from the Atlantic, Gulf and Pacific Strike Teams used a water quality instrument to monitor depleted oxygen and pH levels at various locations around the
