From the President’s Office – 3/13/09
Filed under: About,From The President's Office,News & Resources
After the past few weeks, I didn’t think things could get any busier here in Washington, but I have been proven wrong! There have been a number of positive outcomes recently as we continue to make progress so I have some good news to share with you this week. First, the President signed into law the FY09 omnibus spending bill which includes a 7% increase for NSF and a 12% increase for both NOAA and Earth science research at NASA. These funds, in addition to the stimulus funds (several billion dollars), mean there will be significant opportunities for the extramural research community. I can’t remember any other time when this size increase for research has occurred. It is a wonderful opportunity for the community.
Last week Ocean Leadership held its Annual Public Policy Forum in the U.S. Capitol Building which featured panels on the oceans role in climate change, enhancing energy security and human health as well as enthusiastic presentations from Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Congressman Brian Baird (D-WA). The panels consisted of members from academia, the Hill, federal agencies and industry. The format allowed for some excellent discussions which extended into the Hill reception following the forum. The event was well attended by over 120 members of the ocean research community as well as officials from the various federal ocean agencies and Congress (http://www.oceanleadership.org/policy/PPF2009). Judging by the reactions of several participants, the event appears to have been a real success.
Last week we also took several of our members to meet with various congressional offices including some particularly productive meetings with the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, each which lasted approximately 90 minutes. I was very pleased with the discussions at these meetings and look forward to further follow up.
Finally, I am delighted to report that the JOIDES Resolution has begun its first expedition since its major upgrade. The Pacific Equatorial Age Transect (PEAT) will lead to a clearer understanding of the Earth’s climate over the past 55 million years, which is particularly timely given our nation’s scientific needs in addressing the challenges associated with climate change.
Because so much is happening in Washington at this time, we are all staying close to home and look forward to updating you on our activities. And, if you are in town, please stop by and see us.
