Development of the Observing Requiring for the Coastal Module of GOOS

The requirements for observations for the Coastal Module of GOOS have been developed by the Coastal Oceans Observing Panel (COOP). COOP is concerned with issues of ecosystem and human health, living marine resources, natural hazards, and safe and efficient marine operations.

The observing system will monitor, assess, and predict effects of natural variations and human activities on the marine environment and ecosystems for the areas of concern listed above.

Work of the Early Development Panels

There have been a number of scientific panels that have contributed to the development of the program for the coastal module of GOOS. Initially there were three panels working on the major issues of concern in the coastal oceans. The Health of the Ocean, or HOTO panel was primarily concerned with trends in the ocean related to the release of contaminants.

The Living Marine Resources Panel was concerned with deep ocean and shelf sea conditions dominated by oceanic processes that affected fishery resources and habitat. Work in coastal and estuarine areas that affected the life cycle of marine resources was coordinated with the Coastal and HOTO panels.