Institutional Update: The Regional Observatory efforts (CenCOOS) and
PaCOS (a NMFS effort for monitoring the west coast) (Francisco Chavez)
Francisco Chavez gave an update on the current status of IOOS (Integrated
Ocean Observing System). From the Washington perspective, IOOS is
“a federation of observing systems.” MBARI is looking to
hire a regional ocean system coordinator for CenCOOS (Central California
Ocean Observing System). Francisco asked the RAP for suggestions,
and if they felt that the RAP was representative of various marine
institutions in the area. The RAP agreed to consider suggestions for
the position and agreed that it was fairly representative. Francisco
described some difficulties in managing observing systems including
over-observation, under-observation and disorganization.
Benefits of ocean observation for the public include: better understanding
of climate change, mitigation of natural hazards, helping marine operations,
national security, public health, and a better understanding of marine
ecosystems and marine resources. The presentation continued with a
discussion of how the data will be managed within CenCOOS. Francisco
mentioned that a strong coupling between operations and research (as
well as secure funding) is needed for successful data coordination.
Finally, there was a discussion on how to address needs of the various
observing systems. The funding or organizational needs of PaCOS (Pacific
Coastal Observing System) or other regional programs may differ from
one another. Similarities between programs may exist as well and this
“backbone” may be better managed at the federal level.
DISCUSSION
ITEMS
Update
on Sanctuary Currents Theme and suggestions for speakers (Mark Stephenson/Sarah
Smith)
The theme for the Sanctuary Currents Symposium 2004 is water quality.
Major topics that the RAP felt would be valuable to mention on water
quality were: harmful algal blooms, desalination, domoic acid, cruise
ships, exotic species in ballast water, influence of power plants.
A concern was raised during the Currents discussion that the SAC would
solicit RAP input on desalination, and there may be a need for more
information and a consensus opinion in the future.
Speaker Suggestions include:
Mary Silver (nonanthropogenic harmful algal blooms)
A senior at CDF&G
Mike Thomas/Karen Wooster (regional water quality board)
Tony Jones (desalination)
Brad Damitz
Fred Watson-watershed institute
EPA representative in SF (mercury in pelagic fish)
Pete Raimondi (entrainment-power plants)
Foster report-thermal influence of power plants
BREAK
INSTITUTIONAL UPDATE: MBARI (Marcia McNutt)
Marcia McNutt updated the RAP on current events at MBARI. The AUVs
are relieving the ROVs of a large quantity of data collection. This
allows the capabilities of the ROVs to be explored and frees them
up to do different tasks. Successful developments include training
a computer to detect items of interest in a video frame and training
the ROV to lock on to a particular organism and follow it with the
camera. She highlighted various researchers at MBARI and gave an update
on the status of projects.
NEW
BUSINESS
No new business was brought up.
Meeting adjourned .
