An edition of: WaterAtlas.orgPresented By: Sarasota County, USF Water Institute

Water-Related News

Mote, Secoora to co-host ‘Eyes on the Ocean’ forum

The public is invited to the forum “Eyes on the Ocean: Why monitoring the sea makes your life better” at 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Jan. 26 at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, Florida. This forum is being held in conjunction with an upcoming Board Meeting for the Southeast Coastal Ocean Observing Regional Association (SECOORA).

SECOORA is one of 11 regional coastal observing systems that comprise the NOAA-led United States Integrated Ocean Observing System (U.S. IOOS).

“IOOS is essentially a weather service for the coastal oceans and Great Lakes, providing the ability to ‘see’ what is happening both above and below the surface,” said Debra Hernandez, Executive Director of SECOORA. “With this information we are able to create tools that support human populations, coastal economies and a healthy, sustainable environment.”

Attendees will learn more about why integrated, regional ocean observing systems, such as SECOORA, are critically important to improve weather forecasts, monitor climate change, understand marine resource dynamics, promote ecosystem and human health, promote maritime and public safety, and enable sustained use of ocean and natural resources.

A panel discussion with industry professionals and Mote scientists will illustrate the value of ocean observations to the economy, public safety and quality of life.

“Our dynamic group of panelists will provide a well-rounded discussion on how observing systems assist them in the vital work they are conducting and how ocean observing directly impacts our local community,” said Dr. Michael P. Crosby, President & CEO of Mote Marine Laboratory and Board Chairman of SECOORA. “Attendees will also hear more about how the community as a whole could benefit from advances in these types of technologies.”