Hawaii to Receive Nearly $2.5 Million to Support Ocean Monitoring Efforts
Press Release
Hawaii will receive $2,488,545 to support efforts to gather and monitor ocean data and develop appropriate forecasting models Senator Daniel K. Inouye, U.S. Representative Mazie K. Hirono, and U.S. Representative Colleen Hanabusa, announced today.
The money will be used to support the Pacific Integrated Ocean Observing System (PacIOOS), a federal partnership between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the University of Hawaii.
PacIOOS collects and manages oceanic data to create forecasting models and operational strategies that help improve safety, enhance our economy, and protect our environment.
"For an island archipelago situated in the middle of the Pacific, we must improve our understanding of the ocean. We are especially susceptible to rising tides, tsunami, fishery depletions and marine debris fields therefore we can never have enough data about how the ocean operates. PacIOOS is a critical tool that will help us prepare our communities for any challenges that may arise from the sea," said Senator Inouye.
"NOAA and the University of Hawaii have partnered to provide critical information on ocean conditions that enhance public safety and benefit the military, fishermen, commercial shippers, paddlers, and surfers," said Congresswoman Hirono. "Before setting out on a voyage, ocean-users can check conditions at their destination, potentially saving lives and money. PacIOOS information has helped the Lanai Oil Company save tens of thousands of dollars a year in fuel by avoiding unsafe water conditions. Congratulations to the University of Hawaii for earning the continued support of NOAA for vital services they provide all ocean users."
"I am encouraged to see ongoing efforts to monitor and protect our vital costal zones," said Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa (HI-01), a member of the House Committee on Natural Resources. "The Pacific Islands are particularly vulnerable to long-term changes in our coastal waters. The PacIOOS system proposal is a promising addition to those efforts, and I thank NOAA for its assistance in maintaining our fragile natural environment."
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