West Coast
Ocean Science Action Agenda
The nation's two ocean science trusts have joined forces to address the most compelling ocean and coastal issues facing our generation.
Our Collective Vision
Research and monitoring to address emerging challenges
The issues facing our ocean and coast are challenging, complex, and evolving. Strategic investments in cutting-edge technology to conduct research and monitoring is needed to address these challenges.
Responsible energy development and infrastructure
Development is likely to continue to occur in our ocean and along our coasts. We need research to understand potential impacts of this development to guide sound implementation of this development.
Policy makers with access to science and information
Addressing complex challenges today cannot be achieved with outdated science and knowledge. Conducting relevant science and monitoring and placing it in the hands of policymakers will help to ensure the best possible management and policy decisions.
Enhanced coastal resilience
Our coast is facing unprecedented climate challenges, from storm surge and sea level rise, to landslides and erosion. Research and monitoring will help us develop sand management and other policies to inform strategies that address coastal erosion and other resilience issues.
Sustainable commercial, recreational, and Tribal fisheries
Commercial, recreational, and Tribal fisheries are core to the economy, culture, and livelihoods of West Coast people. Ensuring the long-term sustainability of these fisheries will provide certainty to global food supply as well as the cultures and values of people living along and visiting the West Coast.
Innovative climate solutions
Marine carbon dioxide removal requires socializing the latest scientific understanding with policy makers while navigating regulatory and management landscapes. Understanding how to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and viability of capturing and storing carbon dioxide is critical to achieving achieve national and regional climate goals.
Institutional and capacity investments that close knowledge gaps
Closing knowledge gaps - in ocean-related education, training, and career pathways - requires an understanding of the institutional and capacity investments needed. Mapping and securing these needed investments is critical to achieving long-term success.
"Aside from its importance to many branches of science, a knowledge of the oceans has a practical value for mankind. The intelligent development of our fishing industries, the laying of oceanic cables, the proper construction of harbor-works, oceanic commerce and navigation, as well as long-range weather forecasting, are all dependent on an understanding of the ocean."
J.H. Paul in The Last Cruise of the Carnegie (1932)
Join Us
In 2025 as we convene key policymakers, agencies, Tribes, academic leaders, scientists, potential funders, and others to chart a path forward and realize long-term sustainable funding for scientific research and monitoring on the West Coast.
West Coast
Ocean Science Action Agenda
The time is now to speak with one unified West Coast voice. Join our nation's two ocean trusts in 2025 as we lay the groundwork to tackle the most pressing issues facing our ocean and coast. Together, we can make a difference.