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Monitoring & Modeling

Weak constraint 4D-Var data assimilation in the Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS) using a saddle-point algorithm: Application to the California Current Circulation

The saddle-point formulation of weak constraint 4-dimensional variational (4D-Var) data assimilation has been developed for the Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS), and is applied here to the California Current System (CCS). Unlike the conventional primal and dual forcing formulation of weak constraint 4D-Var, the saddle-point formulation can be efficiently parallelized in time, leading to a […]

Weak constraint 4D-Var data assimilation in the Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS) using a saddle-point algorithm: Application to the California Current Circulation Read More »

Acidification of the Global Surface Ocean: What We Have Learned from Observations

The chemistry of the global ocean is rapidly changing due to the uptake of anthropogenic carbon dioxide (CO2). This process, commonly referred to as ocean acidification (OA), is negatively impacting many marine species and ecosystems. In this study, we combine observations in the global surface ocean collected by NOAA Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory and Atlantic

Acidification of the Global Surface Ocean: What We Have Learned from Observations Read More »

Coastal processes modify projections of some climate-driven stressors in the California Current System

Global projections for ocean conditions in 2100 predict that the North Pacific will experience some of the largest changes. Coastal processes that drive variability in the region can alter these projected changes but are poorly resolved by global coarse-resolution models. We quantify the degree to which local processes modify biogeochemical changes in the eastern boundary California

Coastal processes modify projections of some climate-driven stressors in the California Current System Read More »

Coastal Ocean Data Analysis Product in North America (CODAP-NA)–An internally consistent data product for discrete inorganic carbon, oxygen, and nutrients on the US North American ocean margins

Internally consistent, quality-controlled (QC) data products play an important role in promoting regional-to-global research efforts to understand societal vulnerabilities to ocean acidification (OA). However, there are currently no such data products for the coastal ocean, where most of the OA-susceptible commercial and recreational fisheries and aquaculture industries are located. In this collaborative effort, we compiled, quality-controlled,

Coastal Ocean Data Analysis Product in North America (CODAP-NA)–An internally consistent data product for discrete inorganic carbon, oxygen, and nutrients on the US North American ocean margins Read More »

Weak Constraint 4D-Var Data Assimilation in ROMS using a Saddle-Point Algorithm: Application to the California Current Circulation

The saddle-point formulation of weak constraint 4-dimensional variational (4D-Var) data assimilation has been developed for the Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS), and is applied here to the California Current System (CCS). Unlike the conventional primal and dual forcing formulation of weak constraint 4D-Var, the saddle-point formulation can be efficiently parallelized in time, leading to a

Weak Constraint 4D-Var Data Assimilation in ROMS using a Saddle-Point Algorithm: Application to the California Current Circulation Read More »

Multiple Linear Regression Models for Reconstructing and Exploring Processes Controlling the Carbonate System of the Northeast US From Basic Hydrographic Data

Carbon dioxide released to the atmosphere by humans can adversely impact aquatic ecosystems, so it is crucial that we understand the current state of carbon variables and anticipate future conditions. Carbon cycling in the coastal ocean is the result of the interaction of physical and biological processes that occur on multiple time and space scales.

Multiple Linear Regression Models for Reconstructing and Exploring Processes Controlling the Carbonate System of the Northeast US From Basic Hydrographic Data Read More »

Calm sea with mountains on horizon and expansive sky in Ketchikan, Alaska. Credit: Phil Price, Flickr

Building Capacity for Alaskan Tribes

Why we care:Alaskan Native communities rely on healthy marine ecosystems for work, sustenance and their way of life. Ocean acidification has documented impacts to marine life and these communities. An important step is assessing the vulnerability of Native Alaskan communities to ocean acidification impacts and developing adaptation strategies for future conditions. NOAA Ocean Acidification supports

Building Capacity for Alaskan Tribes Read More »

Spruce Island in the Kodiak region of Alaska. Bull kelp at water's surface with island in the background. Ocean acidification monitoring in this region helps prepare Kodiak Tribes for the impacts of ocean change. Credit: NOAA

Supporting Tribal Ocean Acidification Monitoring Programs

Why we care:Alaskan Native communities rely on healthy marine ecosystems for work, sustenance and their way of life. Ocean acidification has documented impacts to marine life and these communities. Community members participate in ocean acidification monitoring and we need to better understand how to meet community needs and fill important monitoring gaps. Monitoring has been

Supporting Tribal Ocean Acidification Monitoring Programs Read More »

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ADAPTING TO OCEAN ACIDIFICATION

The NOAA Ocean Acidification Program (OAP) works to prepare society to adapt to the consequences of ocean acidification and conserve marine ecosystems as acidification occurs. Learn more about the human connections and adaptation strategies from these efforts.

Adaptation approaches fostered by the OAP include:

FORECASTING

Using models and research to understand the sensitivity of organisms and ecosystems to ocean acidification to make predictions about the future, allowing communities and industries to prepare

MANAGEMENT

Using these models and predictions as tools to facilitate management strategies that will protect marine resources and communities from future changes

TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

Developing innovative tools to help monitor ocean acidification and mitigate changing ocean chemistry locally

REDUCING OUR CARBON FOOTPRINT

On the Road

Drive fuel-efficient vehicles or choose public transportation. Choose your bike or walk! Don't sit idle for more than 30 seconds. Keep your tires properly inflated.

With your Food Choices

Eat local- this helps cut down on production and transport! Reduce your meat and dairy. Compost to avoid food waste ending up in the landfill

With your Food Choices

Make energy-efficient choices for your appliances and lighting. Heat and cool efficiently! Change your air filters and program your thermostat, seal and insulate your home, and support clean energy sources

By Reducing Coastal Acidification

Reduce your use of fertilizers, Improve sewage treatment and run off, and Protect and restore coastal habitats

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TAKE ACTION WITH YOUR COMMUNITY

You've taken the first step to learn more about ocean acidification - why not spread this knowledge to your community?

Every community has their unique culture, economy and ecology and what’s at stake from ocean acidification may be different depending on where you live.  As a community member, you can take a larger role in educating the public about ocean acidification. Creating awareness is the first step to taking action.  As communities gain traction, neighboring regions that share marine resources can build larger coalitions to address ocean acidification.  Here are some ideas to get started:

  1. Work with informal educators, such as aquarium outreach programs and local non-profits, to teach the public about ocean acidification. Visit our Education & Outreach page to find the newest tools!
  2. Participate in habitat restoration efforts to restore habitats that help mitigate the effects of coastal acidification
  3. Facilitate conversations with local businesses that might be affected by ocean acidification, building a plan for the future.
  4. Partner with local community efforts to mitigate the driver behind ocean acidification  – excess CO2 – such as community supported agriculture, bike & car shares and other public transportation options.
  5. Contact your regional Coastal Acidification Network (CAN) to learn how OA is affecting your region and more ideas about how you can get involved in your community
       More for Taking Community Action