Sub-Panels

Recognizing the particular importance of certain topics to the U.S. ocean science and education enterprise, the ORAP has established three Sub-panels and one Task Force to examine these topics in greater depth. The sub-groups present recommendations for the ORAP to refine and provide to the heads of federal agencies.

ORAP Education Sub-panel

The purpose of the Education Sub-panel is to provide expert input to the ORAP on matters of both formal and informal education, strategic planning, and implementation being undertaken by federal partners in ocean research and education. Working with other allied groups and individuals, the Sub-panel will work to enhance the coordination and implementation of ocean education efforts among academic, state, private, federal and other stakeholders.  Click here for more information on this group.

ORAP Industry Sub-panel

The Industry Sub-panel is convened by the ORAP to facilitate a means for the U.S. industrial sector to provide their input, views and expertise in the following areas: (1) Achieving and sustaining an Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS); (2) Promoting lifelong ocean education; (3) Modernizing ocean infrastructure and enhancing technology development; and (4) Fostering interagency partnerships to increase and apply scientific knowledge.  Click here for more information on this group.

ORAP Ocean Observing Sub-panel

The Ocean Observing Sub-panel is convened to provide a forum for expert input to ORAP on issues relating to interagency federal ocean observing initiatives. These include, but are not limited to: (1) the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS), both global and U.S. coastal components, as addressed through cooperative and collaborative international, national and regional programs and initiatives; (2) the U.S. Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) and its relationship as the U.S. contribution to the Global Earth Observing System of Systems (GEOSS); (3) the National Science Foundation’s Ocean Observatories Initiative (OOI) and the Arctic Observing Network (AON); (4) the nation’s satellite ocean observation initiatives; and (5) education activities and programs related to ocean observing. Click here for more information on this group.

Ocean Acidification Task Force

The OATF was convened by the ORAP to facilitate a means for experts on the topic of ocean acidification to provide their input, views and expertise to ORAP on issues relating to interagency federal ocean acidification activities. The OATF has completed its work and the task force is closed.  Click here for more information on this group.