Legal Definitions - National Ocean Service

The National Ocean Service (NOS) is a principal division within the U.S. Department of Commerce's National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Its core mission is to provide science-based solutions and services that address critical challenges facing America's coasts and oceans. This includes ensuring safe and efficient marine transportation, promoting healthy coastal ecosystems, and supporting the sustainable use of ocean resources. The NOS achieves this through activities such as creating nautical charts, managing marine protected areas, monitoring coastal conditions, and providing data for coastal resilience planning.

Here are some examples illustrating the work of the National Ocean Service:

• Imagine a large container ship navigating through a complex harbor entrance, relying on precise electronic charts to avoid sandbars and other underwater hazards. The ship's captain uses these charts to ensure the safe passage of millions of dollars worth of cargo and to protect the crew. This scenario directly involves the National Ocean Service because it is responsible for surveying U.S. waters and producing the official nautical charts that mariners depend on for safe navigation.

• Consider a coastal community in Florida that is experiencing more frequent flooding due to rising sea levels and stronger storm surges. Local planners are working to develop new building codes and restore protective mangrove forests to reduce future damage. The National Ocean Service plays a vital role here by providing critical data on sea-level rise projections, coastal elevation, and mapping tools that help communities understand their vulnerabilities and plan effective strategies for coastal resilience and adaptation.

• Picture a team of marine biologists conducting research on endangered sea turtles in a designated protected area off the coast of California. This area is known for its rich biodiversity and serves as a critical habitat for various marine species. The National Ocean Service manages the National Marine Sanctuary System, which includes such protected areas. Through this system, NOS works to conserve significant marine ecosystems, promote scientific research, and educate the public about the importance of ocean health and conservation.