NOAA Logo — The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is a scientific agency of the Department of Commerce of the United States whose activities focus on the conditions of the oceans and atmosphere. NOAA warns of weather, prepares charts seas and skies, guides the use and protection of ocean and coastal resources, and conducts research to improve understanding and management of the environment. In addition to civilian personnel, NOAA research and operates with 300 uniformed servants of the NOAA Corps. The Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere, Department of Commerce USA, retired Vice Admiral Conrad C. Lautenbacher, the NOAA administrator. NOAA is celebrating their 2nd anniversary of science, service, and administration.
noaa logo
NOAA was formed on October 3 of 1970, after the Pte Richard Nixon proposed creating a new service department on a national need “… for the better protection of life and property from natural hazards … for a better understanding of the total environment … to explore and develop leadership wise use of marine resources …” NOAA was formed by a cluster of three existing agencies, the oldest of the federal government.
The “strategic vision” NOAA is “an informed society that uses a full understanding of the role of oceans, coasts and atmosphere in the ecosystem to make the best global social and economic decisions.” The agency mission is to “understand and predict changes in Earth’s environment, conserve and manage coastal and marine resources to fulfill the needs of the nation economically, socially and environmentally.” In addition to its vision and mission, NOAA has four goals that guide its operations suite. Each goal corresponds to activities focused on ecosystems, climate, weather, water, trade and transport.
noaa