IOOS Regional Associations are working together to close nationwide ocean observing gaps.
The campaign, Closing the Gaps, advocates for more funding to expand high frequency (HF) radar coverage and increase glider missions. HF radar and gliders collect data critical to safeguarding productive ecosystems, assisting with safe and efficient maritime transportation, and saving lives on the US oceans and coasts.
Success!
Closing the Gaps campaign has been a huge success – growing the IOOS Regional Association budget since 2016. See how the SECOORA region benefitted below.
Growing Surface Current Monitoring Network
Recently, funding was distributed to SECOORA to purchase two new HF radars for the east coast of Florida – filling a major gap.
SECOORA also received funding to purchase four used HF radars for the Southeast U.S. See picture for proposed locations.
Thank you to everyone for advocating to close this HF radar gap. Data collected by HF radar provide the Coast Guard real-time information on surface currents, critical information for search and rescue efforts.
New Glider added to SECOORA Glider Observatory
Equipment ages and technology improves. In order to continue collecting vital data and information, we must invest in new equipment.
With Closing the Gaps funding, SECOORA purchased a G3 Slocum profiling glider. The new glider will increase our number of glider days at sea and provide valuable data for hurricane intensity forecasting and ecosystem monitoring. Help us pick a name for the glider (voting closes April 15).
How You Can Support the Closing the Gaps Campaign
Thank your Senators and Congressional members for supporting IOOS appropriations! Their support has resulted in positive benefits to our region. Outreaching to legislators ensures you get uninterrupted access to coastal data provided and collected by us. Contact abbey@secooraorgpact.wpengine.com today.
Related news
Happy Holidays from SECOORA!
Thank you for being part of the SECOORA network! We wish you a happy holiday season, and look forward to working with you to expand our impact in 2025.
Student Opportunity: Marine Heat Wave Position
SECOORA is seeking a graduate student or post-doc to examine ocean temperature regimes in the Southeast. This project will support a student to extract surface and subsurface temperature data from the SECOORA data portal, identify any data gaps, and conduct preliminary analysis.
Hiring: Community Engagement Specialist (Remote)
SECOORA is hiring a full-time Community Engagement Specialist to help us develop and implement our vision and programs with regards to community engagement. This is a remote position, but the ideal applicant will be located within the Southeast. Application review begins January 15th.