The White House has proposed to defund the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS).
This action would shut down the IOOS regional network, including AOOS.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Contact Alaska’s congressional delegation to urge support for IOOS
Contact information for Senator Lisa Murkowski, Senator Dan Sullivan, and Representative Nick Begich.
Submit outside witness testimony
- The deadline for House subcommittee guidance was May 9.
- Senate subcommittee guidance
Deadline is June 13, 2025 (close of business – assume 5pm ET)
Essential Services Delivered by IOOS and AOOS
The shutdown of IOOS Regional Associations would mean the loss of critical data that support local, regional, and national economies—impacting sectors such as shipping, fishing, coastal resilience, and tourism. Especially at risk are the following key services:
Maritime Commerce & Offshore Safety
By providing real-time information on ocean conditions, IOOS supports safe navigation and operations for ships in coastal zones and at our nation’s ports. Real-time ocean current data, such as through the IOOS high frequency radar network — our nation’s only — helps the U.S. Coast Guard respond quickly and effectively to emergencies at sea and carry out search and rescue missions.
Fisheries & Seafood Competitiveness
As the U.S. works to grow its seafood economy and stay globally competitive, IOOS delivers information that keeps the fisheries industry thriving. IOOS provides access to reliable data on ocean conditions that seafood growers need to protect their businesses, fisheries managers need to effectively manage stocks, and fishers need to stay safe on the water and to maximize every trip to sea.
Disaster Forecasting & Preparedness
From data for storm forecasts to monitoring coastal flooding to detecting harmful algal blooms that threaten public health and local economies, IOOS delivers real-time ocean conditions data and forecasts essential for emergency preparedness.