by Mandy Donoghue

Created on: February 25, 2009

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is a government agency of the United States created to investigate and report environmental changes that directly affect our country. Information is gathered about the world's oceans, coastal areas, and the Earth's atmosphere. The data is then analyzed in an effort to develop and implement conservation plans necessary for the proper management of natural resources.

Prior to the NOAA's creation, separate entities severally conducted scientific and environmental research in the United States. In 1970, the federal government established a central agency to be held responsible for oceanic and atmospheric monitoring. Not only have consolidated efforts to predict natural disasters saved lives and property, but commerce also benefited from knowing about climate changes that could have adversely effected numerous industries and trade relationships.

Since the agency was created to serve the public and government, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration addresses five service areas including ecosystems, climate, weather and water, commerce and transportation, and mission support. Through the creation of programs and special projects within local and global communities, the agency is able to achieve its goals. Findings are then reported online for public view.

Ecosystems are identified and managed using an ecosystem-based approach, which is a strategy encompassing conservation and industry goals in a sustainable way by giving incentives to businesses like fisheries committed to preserving marine life and protecting biodiversity. An ecosystem approach focuses on the whole community rather than one species. Educating people and companies via outreach programs is standard protocol in hopes of growing the number of environmental stewards.

Comprehending changes in climate conditions is conducted through cooperative research efforts resulting in reliable scientific data potentially influential on society's future plans ranging from transportation to food decisions. Observations are recorded in a modeling program and potential projections are run. These findings are disseminated so that decision makers can plan accordingly for conditions commonly associated with bad weather like flooding or drought.

Weather and water information is divided into three separate categories including data users, extreme events, and observing systems. Data users houses material for reference purposes typically pertinent to businesses,

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