Our Research Areas
NCCOS researchers capture dolphins to assess their health. Because people eat the same seafood
as dolphins, making these critical food web connections with species at the top of the marine
food chain is essential to better understand risks to the health of communities living along the
coast.
Our research is used by coastal communities to protect themselves from harmful algae,
water
contamination, and climate
impacts. We also provide the research necessary for communities
to develop effective and sustainable management of their resources. We work with
the NOS
Coastal Ocean Science
Board identify and prioritize science and research supporting NOAA's
National Ocean
Service, coastal stakeholders, and statutory mandates.
Research underpins
NOAA's ability to predict and prepare for natural events and their
impacts. The Harmful
Algal Bloom forecasts we develop build on over ten years of research to
identify
HABs
and their toxins, understand their causes and consequences, and detect and monitor them.
Research enables faster and more accurate and efficient coastal mapping and
monitoring.
We developed new ways to map coral reef ecosystems, using satellite imagery instead
of
divers. This allowed us to map all US reefs in less than 10 years and within budget.
Research Helps us Assess Risk. Which of the thousands of chemicals introduced into
the
marketplace each year are accumulating in coastal areas? Which are toxic? By developing
early warning systems and sub-lethal indicators we are helping communities and agencies
assess risk and target their resources.
Research Produces Information. Solving environmental problems requires knowledge and
power. Decision-makers have power, but may lack in-depth knowledge of complex problems.
NCCOS works directly with managers, industry, regulators, and scientists to deliver relevant,
timely, and accurate scientific information.
Our Primary Research Areas