Data

Participants

Charter

Users

Memorandum of Agreement to Establish the NorthEast Ocean Observing System

Background

Whereas the health of natural resources of the coastal ocean are critical to sustaining the economic vitality of northeastern coastal states, and

Whereas the coastal ocean provides many recreational opportunities, and

Whereas the coastal ocean provides a critical means for transportation, and

Whereas the coastal ocean is under increasing pressure from populations pressures that can affect the environmental quality and economic benefits of this area, and

Whereas an improved sampling and sensing capability is needed to support science based decision-making on coastal issues, and

Whereas the universities and research institutions of the northeast U.S. (Virginia to Maine) have an outstanding record of oceanographic research,

Now therefore be it resolved that the Northeast Ocean Observing System (NEOOS) is formed by the parties to this agreement to coordinate, integrate, and seek support for a network of ocean observing systems throughout the northeast.

Objectives

• To establish a network of integrated ocean observing systems that provides the northeast region with a sampling and sensing capability to meet the needs of coastal ocean users and managers.
• To focus regional scientific expertise on coastal issues of concern to the northeast U.S.
• To develop uniform approaches for data management that enable diverse users of information to retrieve and interpret data easily.
• To foster collaborative research programs on coastal issues of mutual interest.
• To seek funds for the establishment of NEOOS

Coordinating Committee

A Coordinating Committee, consisting of one representative from each institution that is party to this agreement, shall meet periodically but no less than annually to coordinate the activities and programs of NEOOS. The Coordinating Committee shall develop an annual statement of work including priorities for fund raising and a data management strategy.

Financial Commitment

This MOA does not constitute a financial commitment on the part of any of the parties. Any financial support will be covered in separate agreements or proposals prepared by the parties, and will be subject to the existing budgetary and administrative procedures of the respective academic and research institutions.

Terms and Conditions

This agreement is effective as of the date of signature by all parties and may be terminated by any party upon written notice to the other party or parties. Proposals to modify terms of this agreement can be initiated in writing by any of the signatories to this agreement and are subject to approval by each of the parties.

Responsibilities of the Parties

Each party agrees that it will be responsible for its own acts and the results thereof and shall not be responsible for the acts of the other parties.

Agreed to by: