NODC Outreach and Education

	NODC All of NOAA

2008 "One NOAA" Science Discussion Seminars

[Seminar Partner's contacts]

[Previous 2007 Seminars]

January	February	March	April
May	June	July	August
September	October	November	December

Please join us for our upcoming "One NOAA" science discussion seminars. This is a joint effort to help share science across NOAA.

i-access to our seminar announcements:

1. Join our moderated seminar announcements e-mail list [nominally, one email per week sent on Mondays].
To join our email list contact Hernan Garcia or a seminar partner.

2. Online public access: http://www.nodc.noaa.gov/General/NODC-About/Outreach/
Web page originally developed by Hajure Fontaine ; Maintained by Hernan Garcia

3. GoogleCalendar online public access: GoogleCalendar*
Maintained by Felix A. Martinez

General notes about the OneNOAA science seminars:

The list of upcoming seminars is updated frequently. Please check for seminar changes (i.e., cancelations, etc.). [RSS available]
Constructive suggestions for improving the content of the seminar series are welcome.
All NOAA offices/divisions are welcome to participate and/or join as seminar partners (see seminar format).
Please share the seminar announcements with anyone interested.
Please notify us of any errors that you find so that we can correct them.
Remote access to seminars is available when indicated. When available, seminar presentations will be available for download.

NOAA Staff Locator

January

Title:	Biogeography of Marine Invasions: Current Status and Future Predictions
Date/Location:	Tuesday, 08 January 2008; 12:00 – 13:00 ETZ (SSMC-4, Room #8150, NOS seminar)
Speaker(s):	Gregory Ruiz (Smithsonian Environmental Research Center)
Abstract:	Biological invasions in coastal ecosystems have occurred throughout Earth’s history, but the scale and tempo has increased strongly in recent time due to global trade. Available data suggest there is a strong latitudinal pattern in recent marine invasions, with more non-native species documented in temperate marine communities than polar or tropical systems. Although this geographic pattern of invasion may reflect some historical biases in search effort and taxonomic knowledge, contemporary surveys suggest these patterns are robust across mid- and high-latitudes, when controlling for search effort. For example, a standardized survey of sessile invertebrate assemblages in estuaries of western North America found a significant decrease in non-native species richness with increasing latitude (32 to 61 oN). Several mechanisms may explain the observed invasion pattern across latitudes, operating alone or in combination, such as differences in (a) propagule supply, (b) biotic resistance to invasion, (c) environmental resistance to invasion, and (d) disturbance regime. To date, the relative importance of these mechanisms across geographic regions has not been evaluated, but each may be expected to change over time. Of particular interest and concern are the interactive effects of climate change and human activities on marine invasions, especially at high latitudes. Current climate change models predict not only an increase in sea surface temperatures but also a rapid reduction in sea ice in the Artic. Combined with human responses, climate change is predicted to cause directional shifts in invasion biogeography, including increased invasion opportunity at high northern latitudes.
Notes:	Presentations are typically available via a combination of phone & webcast. With a reservation, they can also be available by video conferencing to those with appropriate equipment. For phone: dial 866-541-1377, passcode 142625. For webcast: 1) go to http://www.MyMeetings.com, enter the meeting number 449707376 and passcode NOS8150; 2) enter other required fields; 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. You must also dial the phone number above so you can hear the presentation. For videoconferencing: contact nos.video.conference@noaa.gov for information on setting up a reservation. Please allow adequate time for testing of connections (at least 24 hours or more) if you do not regularly connect with NOS.

Title:	Global ocean heat content 1955-2006 in light of recently revealed instrumentation problems
Date/Location:	Thursday, 10 January 2008; 11:00 – 12:00 ETZ; 11:00 - 12:00 ETZ (SSMC-3, Room #4817, NODC Seminar)
Speaker(s):	John Antonov (NODC)
Abstract:	Recent instrumental biases and data recording problems have necessitated the reexamination of ocean heat content calculated from in situ observations. Warm time-varying biases have been shown in XBT (and MBT) temperatures in comparison with bottle and CTD observations. Cool biases due to pressure offsets during data recording in a significant subset of profiling floats have also recently been discovered. Here we show that excluding floats with a cool bias and correcting for XBT and MBT biases does not significantly affect long term warming of the world ocean but reduces the decadal variability of ocean heat content. Other possible methods for dealing with the XBT warm bias will be also discussed.
Notes:	VideoTeleConferencing (VTC)/Webex access available upon request by contacting Cheryl.Ingram@noaa.gov (301-713-3284 x155) at least a day before the seminar. For general questions about this seminar, please contact Hernan Garcia (301-713-3290 x184). For Webcast access: 1) go to http://www.MyMeetings.com, enter the meeting number 442112424 and passcode NODC4817 (alternatively direct Participant Join URL: http://www.mymeetings.com/nc/join.php?i=442112424&p=NODC4817&t=c); 2) type in other required fields (i.e., your name, e-mail, organization); 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. Please contact your IT staff for questions about WebEx.

Title:	Sea Ice Change Around Alaska and Impacts on Human Activities
Date/Location:	Tuesday, 15 January 2008; 10:00-11:00am Alaska Daylight/Standard Time ( RISA/ACCAP seminar via teleconference only )
Speaker(s):	Hajo Eicken (University of Alaska)
Abstract:	The Arctic sea-ice cover is rapidly transforming, with sustained northward retreat of the summer ice edge and thinning of the pack ice. The seas around Alaska have experienced some of the largest changes anywhere in the Arctic. The talk will discuss some of the causes of such change and what this may mean for coastal communities, marine ecosystems and industrial activities.
Notes:	Pre-registration is not required but is strongly encouraged. For further information and to register please contact: Sarah Trainor, ACCAP Coordinator and Research Scientist, (907) 474-7878, fnsft@uaf.edu (see also http://www.uaf.edu/accap/teleconference.htm).

Title:	Vibrio spp. in the Mississippi Sound
Date/Location:	Thursday, 17 January 2008; 12:00 – 13:00 ETZ (SSMC-4, Room #8150, NOS seminar)
Speaker(s):	Crystal N. Johnson, Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, The University of Southern Mississippi
E-mail(s):	c.n.johnson@usm.edu, crystalj_at_uab@yahoo.com
Abstract:	There are several species of pathogenic vibrios that occur naturally in coastal waters worldwide, some of which cause disease outbreaks during certain environmental conditions. The most thoroughly described environmental factor is sea surface temperature; vibrio densities are highest when water temperatures are warm, and human illness is more frequent during warmer months. Temperature only accounts for approximately 50% of the variability in vibrio densities; thus the contribution of other environmental parameters must be considered. Three major species are pathogenic for humans, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, V. vulnificus, and V. cholerae. In the U.S., V. parahaemolyticus is the most commonly reported cause of human illness, although it is not the most abundant Vibrio spp. found in coastal areas. Although V. vulnificus typically does not cause outbreaks, it does have one of the highest case fatality rates among pathogenic bacteria, and infection can lead to amputation or death. V. parahaemolyticus illness most often results from consumption of raw or undercooked seafood, and V. vulnificus illness often results from wound infections. Densities of V. parahaemolyticus and V. vulnificus in waters, oysters, or sediment were measured in the Mississippi Sound during 2006-2007, along with sea surface temperature, salinity, turbidity, and chlorophyll levels and phytoplankton and zooplankton densities. V. parahaemolyticus containing genes associated with pathogenicity were collected and subjected to phylogenetic typing by PCR-based methods. In addition, a public outreach brochure was produced that has been distributed to formal and nonformal educators in MS and AL, legislators, local schools, and the MS Department of Marine Resources.
Notes:	Presentations are typically available via a combination of phone & webcast. With a reservation, they can also be available by video conferencing to those with appropriate equipment. For phone: dial 866-541-1377, passcode 142625. For webcast: 1) go to http://www.MyMeetings.com, enter the meeting number 449707376 and passcode NOS8150; 2) enter other required fields; 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. You must also dial the phone number above so you can hear the presentation. For videoconferencing: contact nos.video.conference@noaa.gov for information on setting up a reservation. Please allow adequate time for testing of connections (at least 24 hours or more) if you do not regularly connect with NOS.

Title:	Lessons Learned and Best Practices in the Management of Coral Reefs
Date/Location:	Wednesday, 23 January 2008; 12:00 – 13:00 ETZ (SSMC-4, Room #8150, NOS seminar)
Speaker(s):	Dr. Mark Tupper, Dr. Jamie Oliver; The WorldFish Center, Penang, Malaysia
E-mail(s):	m.tupper@cgiar.org
Abstract:	Since the 1990s, over $320 million of Global Environment Facility (GEF) funds were invested in projects at varying action and technical levels to improve the management of coral reef, seagrass and mangrove habitats, much of which was part of a broader portfolio of over $600 million invested in coastal-marine projects overall. The dissemination of best practices based on lessons learned is a strategic priority for the GEF. However, in the case of coral reef projects no comprehensive understanding of GEF successes and failures has ever been conducted. In recent reviews of GEF performance and activities, the need to utilize the results of previous project outcomes, experiences and lessons learned more comprehensively has been highlighted. The GEF supported project “Knowledgebase for Lessons Learned and Best Practices in the Management of Coral Reefs is intended to assist the GEF in fulfilling a major mandate to identify what has worked and what could be improved upon in supporting biodiversity conservation. Tools emanating from this effort, which will be demonstrated include: A WorldFish hosted online knowledgebase. The database can be accessed at www.reefbase.org/gefll, but is not yet fully functional. A online toolkit housed within ReefBase, linked to ReefGIS. This will be a “living document”, in which managers can edit or upload modules.
Notes:	Presentations are typically available via a combination of phone & webcast. With a reservation, they can also be available by video conferencing to those with appropriate equipment. For phone: dial 866-541-1377, passcode 142625. For webcast: 1) go to http://www.MyMeetings.com, enter the meeting number 449707376 and passcode NOS8150; 2) enter other required fields; 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. You must also dial the phone number above so you can hear the presentation. For videoconferencing: contact nos.video.conference@noaa.gov for information on setting up a reservation. Please allow adequate time for testing of connections (at least 24 hours or more) if you do not regularly connect with NOS.

Title:	NOAA’s Data Holdings, New Energy Sectors, and a Changing Climate
Date/Location:	Thursday, 24 January 2008; 11:00 - 12:00 ETZ (SSMC-3, Room #4817, NODC Seminar)
Speaker(s):	Thomas Bigford (NMFS/Office of Habitat Conservation)
Abstract:	In this talk I remark on how NOAA might expect to provide data and information related to energy in the coming decades, with consideration for how others' expectations of NOAA might shift with the climate.
Notes:	VideoTeleConferencing (VTC)/Webex access available upon request by contacting Cheryl.Ingram@noaa.gov (301-713-3284 x155) at least a day before the seminar. For general questions about this seminar, please contact Hernan Garcia (301-713-3290 x184). Webcast access: 1) go to http://www.mymeetings.com/nc/join.php?i=442112424&p=NODC4817&t=c); 2) type in other required fields (i.e., your name, e-mail, organization); 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. Please contact your IT staff for questions about WebEx.
Presentation:	Download [PDF]
About The Speaker:	Bio [PDF]

Title:	Large scale variability of Atlantic derived waters within the St. Anna Trough region. More historical observed data - new peculiarities
Date/Location:	Friday, 25 January 2008; 11:00 - 12:00 ETZ (SSMC-3, Room #4817, NODC Seminar)
Speaker(s):	Dr. Sergey Pisarev (Head of the Polar Group with Shirshov' Institute of Oceanography, Russia)
Abstract:	Review/new perspectives.
Notes:	VideoTeleConferencing (VTC)/Webex access available upon request by contacting Cheryl Ingram (301-713-3284 x155) at least a day before the seminar. For general questions about this seminar, please contact Hernan Garcia (301-713-3290 x184). Webcast access: 1) go to www.MyMeetings.com, meeting number 442112424; passcode NODC4817; 2) type in other required fields (i.e., your name, e-mail, organization); 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. Please contact your IT staff for questions about WebEx.
Presentation:	Download [PDF]

Title:	Technologies Under Development Within The USGS Leetown Science Center With Emphasis On Ship Ballast Water Stabilization
Date/Location:	Thursday, 31 January 2008; 12:00 – 13:00 ETZ (SSMC-4, Room #8150, NOS seminar)
Speaker(s):	Dr. Barnaby Watten, Dr. Frank Panek, Dr. Philip Sibrell and Dr. Cliff Starliper ( USGS Leetown Science Center, Kearneysville, WV)
Abstract:	Current research within the Restoration Technologies Branch of the Leetown Science Center (LSC) will be reviewed including (1), the Pulsed Limestone Bed processes developed to restore acid impacted streams and rivers (2), the Ferroxysorb process developed to control P discharges into receiving waters from fish and other animal husbandry operations and (3), control processes developed to combat aquatic invasive species present in water supply systems and ship ballast. The latter includes hydroxide stabilization of ballast residuals followed by a dilution and/or recarbonation step. Supporting bioassay tests, conducted within the Fish Health Branch of LSC, have included analyses of the bactericidal effect of elevated pH (10, 11, and 12) on Gram-negative and Gram-positive species, including two primary fish pathogens (Aeromonas salmoncida and Yersinia ruckeri) as well as strains of Escherichia coli, Vibrio cholera, Enterococcus fecalis, Staphylococcus sp., and other aquatic bacteria. Hydroxide treatments to pH 12 provided a 100% bactericidal effect, relative to controls, for all bacteria tested to date. The duration at pH 12 required for 100 % killing was less than 48 h for most of the bacteria, and less than 72 h for all. Reagent requirements versus salinity level have been established and relative costs will be presented.
Notes:	Presentations are typically available via a combination of phone & webcast. With a reservation, they can also be available by video conferencing to those with appropriate equipment. For phone: dial 866-541-1377, passcode 142625. For webcast: 1) go to http://www.MyMeetings.com, enter the meeting number 449707376 and passcode NOS8150; 2) enter other required fields; 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. You must also dial the phone number above so you can hear the presentation. For videoconferencing: contact nos.video.conference@noaa.gov for information on setting up a reservation. Please allow adequate time for testing of connections (at least 24 hours or more) if you do not regularly connect with NOS.

February

Title:	Shipwrecks on the Alaska Frontier: Kad’yak and Ha
Date/Location:	Friday, 01 February 2208; 12:00 – 13:00 ETZ (NOAA Science Center, 1301 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD)
Speaker(s):	Frank Cantelas (NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration) and John Jensen (Sea Education Association)
Abstract:	Come back in time to the early days of the Alaska frontier and learn about Alaska’s oldest shipwreck and a Coast Survey steamer that had a second life as a Klondike gold rush passenger ship before it mysteriously exploded and sank.
Notes:	Shipwrecks! The NOAA Heritage Week Lecture Series are free, open to the public, and sign language interpreted (public information 301-713-3066). For more information contact Lynne Mersfelder-Lewis (Lynne.Mersfelder@noaa.gov); see also http://www.preserveamerica.noaa.gov/heritageweek.html. No remote access.

Title:	The Hunt for the USS Alligator: The U.S. Navy’s First Sub
Date/Location:	Monday, 04 February 2008; 12:00 – 13:00 ETZ (NOAA Science Center, 1301 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD)
Speaker(s):	Jim Christley, Submarine History Enthusiast and Marine Artist
Abstract:	Join the search for the green, 140-year old Alligator. Last known location: off the North Carolina coast. Learn the exciting history of this mysterious vessel and the effort to find it.
Notes:	Shipwrecks! The NOAA Heritage Week Lecture Series are free, open to the public, and sign language interpreted (public information 301-713-3066). For more information contact Lynne Mersfelder-Lewis (Lynne.Mersfelder@noaa.gov); see also http://www.preserveamerica.noaa.gov/heritageweek.html. No remote access.

Title:	World War II Shipwrecks in the Deep Waters of the Gulf of Mexico
Date/Location:	Tuesday, 05 February 2008; 12:00 – 13:00 ETZ (NOAA Science Center, 1301 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD)
Speaker(s):	Robert Church, C&C Technology, Inc.
Abstract:	Dive into a recent effort by a diverse team of researchers to study the wrecks of six ships that were sunk by German U-boats in the deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico during World War II.
Notes:	Shipwrecks! The NOAA Heritage Week Lecture Series are free, open to the public, and sign language interpreted (public information 301-713-3066). For more information contact Lynne Mersfelder-Lewis (Lynne.Mersfelder@noaa.gov); see also http://www.preserveamerica.noaa.gov/heritageweek.html. No remote access.

Title:	Hot Sour Soup: Good for Colds, Bad for Corals
Date/Location:	Tuesday, 05 February 2008; 15:00 – 16:00 ETZ (SSMC-3, Room #4527, NOS seminar)
Speaker(s):	Mark Eakin, NOAA Center for Satellite Applications and Research, Satellite Oceanography & Climate Division (Coordinator of NOAA’s Coral Reef Watch)
Abstract:	Coral reefs live within a fairly narrow envelope of environmental conditions constrained by water temperatures, light, salinity, nutrients, bathymetry and the aragonite saturation state of seawater. As documented in numerous studies, the world’s coral reefs are “in crisis” as a result of human impacts on their environment. While local stresses currently dominate, coral reefs are increasingly confronted with global-scale changes due to rising greenhouse gas concentrations. These changes are rapidly modifying the environmental envelope of coral reefs through both increased thermal stress and ocean acidification. In the former case, there is a well-documented relationship between thermal stress and the response of corals that include coral bleaching, disease, and mortality. Clear tolerance thresholds exist beyond which high temperature and accumulated thermal stress have deleterious effects. However, the synergistic effects of increasing temperature and ocean acidification are not yet fully understood. At this time, there is mounting concern that decreasing pH and aragonite saturation state will cause net reef accretion to cease or become negative. The threshold at which this could occur is likely to be reached much sooner than the pH drop necessary to induce carbonate dissolution. Both the thermal and chemical limits that control coral survival and reef growth will likely be passed before 2100 assuming even conservative projections reported in the 4th Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. This talk, based in part on the review paper highlighted with the cover of Science on 14 December, will discuss these thresholds and their ramifications for ecosystems and resource management.
Notes:	Presentations are typically available via a combination of phone & webcast. With a reservation, they can also be available by video conferencing to those with appropriate equipment. For phone: dial 866-541-1377, passcode 142625. For webcast: 1) go to http://www.MyMeetings.com, enter the meeting number 449707376 and passcode NOS8150; 2) enter other required fields; 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. You must also dial the phone number above so you can hear the presentation. For videoconferencing: contact nos.video.conference@noaa.gov for information on setting up a reservation. Please allow adequate time for testing of connections (at least 24 hours or more) if you do not regularly connect with NOS.

Title:	50th Anniversary World Data Centers (1957-2007): World Data Center of Oceanography, Silver Spring
Date/Location:	Wednesday 06 February 2008; 11:00 – 12:00 ETZ; (SSMC-3, Room #4817, NODC Seminar)
Speaker(s):	Charlotte Sazama, Robert Gelfeld, Godfrey Trammell (NODC)
Abstract:	Originally established during the International Geophysical Year of 1957-58, the World Data Center System functions under the guidance of the International Council of Scientific Unions (ICSU). World Data Center for Oceanography, Silver Spring, is collocated with, and operated by, the U.S. National Oceanographic Data Center (NODC). For additional information, please contact Sydney Levitus (Director, World Data Center for Oceanography, Silver Spring).
Notes:	For VideoTeleConferencing (VTC) access: contact Cheryl.Ingram@noaa.gov (301-713-3284 x155) at least a day before the seminar. For Webcast access: 1) go to http://www.mymeetings.com/nc/join.php?i=442112424&p=NODC4817&t=c); 2) type in other required fields (i.e., your name, e-mail, organization); 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. For phone access: toll free dial 866-743-9902 using a touch-tone phone; when prompted enter participant code 4689608 followed by a "#". For general questions about this seminar, please contact Hernan Garcia (301-713-3290 x184).
Presentation:	Download [PDF]

Title:	RMS Titanic: Exploring and Preserving a Maritime Icon
Date/Location:	Wednesday, 06 February 2008; 12:00 – 13:00 ETZ (NOAA Science Center, 1301 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD)
Speaker(s):	Craig McLean (Deputy Assistant Administrator, NOAA Research) and Ole Varmer (NOAA Attorney-Advisor)
Abstract:	Get a first-hand account of NOAA’s 20-plus year involvement in one of the most famous shipwrecks in history. This exciting talk will highlight the exploration and history of the vessel and the laws related to the wreck.
Notes:	Shipwrecks! The NOAA Heritage Week Lecture Series are free, open to the public, and sign language interpreted (public information 301-713-3066). For more information contact Lynne Mersfelder-Lewis (Lynne.Mersfelder@noaa.gov); see also http://www.preserveamerica.noaa.gov/heritageweek.html. No remote access.

Title:	The Wreck of the Henrietta Marie: A Dive into a Slave Ship’s Past
Date/Location:	Thursday, 07 February 2008; 10:00 – 11:00 ETZ (NOAA Science Center, 1301 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD)
Speaker(s):	Michael H. Cottman (Senior Writer, BlackAmerica.com)
Abstract:	Join Pulitzer Prize-winning author Michael Cottman as he describes his underwater odyssey to a sunken 17th century slave ship. Learn about the ship’s role in his ancestors’ history, their story, and the African-American scuba divers who helped explore the wreck. Presented in association with NOAA Chapter Blacks in Government.
Notes:	Shipwrecks! The NOAA Heritage Week Lecture Series are free, open to the public, and sign language interpreted (public information 301-713-3066). For more information contact Lynne Mersfelder-Lewis (Lynne.Mersfelder@noaa.gov); see also http://www.preserveamerica.noaa.gov/heritageweek.html. No remote access.

Title:	Explorations of the Airship USS Macon
Date/Location:	Friday, 08 February 2008; 12:00 – 13:00 ETZ (NOAA Science Center, 1301 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD)
Speaker(s):	Chris Grech (Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute) and Bruce Terrell (NOAA National Marine Sanctuary Program)
Abstract:	Go deep off the California coast with researchers as they explore the wreck of one the largest flying objects ever built.
Notes:	Shipwrecks! The NOAA Heritage Week Lecture Series are free, open to the public, and sign language interpreted (public information 301-713-3066). For more information contact Lynne Mersfelder-Lewis (Lynne.Mersfelder@noaa.gov); see also http://www.preserveamerica.noaa.gov/heritageweek.html. No remote access.

Title:	Evaluation of Satellite Data Assimilation in the Advanced Research Weather Research and Forecasting (ARWRF) Mesoscale Model System
Date/Location:	Friday, 08 February 8 10:00 - 11:00 ETZ (World Weather Building, Conference Room 707; 5200 Auth Road, Camp Springs, JCSDA seminar)
Speaker(s):	JianJun Xu (JCSDA / University Corporation for Atmospheric Research / Air Force Weather Authority)
Abstract:	Based on both the National Center for Atmospheric Research Advanced Research Weather Research and Forecasting (ARWRF)- Variational and Joint Center for Satellite Data Assimilation Global Statistical Interpolation data assimilation systems, Advanced TIROS Operational Vertical Sounder and Special Sensor Microwave Imager Sounder radiance data were assimilated into the ARWRF mesoscale forecasting system. A series of experiments were designed to access the model forecast accuracy over North America, and Southwest and East Asia. The statistical results show that the satellite data assimilation improves the initial conditions and reduces the model errors somewhat. Based on both the National Center for Atmospheric Research Advanced Research Weather Research and Forecasting (ARWRF)- Variational and Joint Center for Satellite Data Assimilation Global Statistical Interpolation data assimilation systems, Advanced TIROS Operational Vertical Sounder and Special Sensor Microwave Imager Sounder radiance data were assimilated into the ARWRF mesoscale forecasting system. A series of experiments were designed to access the model forecast accuracy over North America, and Southwest and East Asia. The statistical results show that the satellite data assimilation improves the initial conditions and reduces the model errors somewhat.
Notes:	Dial-in: Information 1-888-322-7905; Int'l. toll # +1-210-839-8501, Passcode: #44852. Unless noted otherwise, all seminars take place at World Weather Building Science Center, 5200 Auth Road, Camp Springs, MD 20746. For questions please contact Ada Armstrong (301-763-8172 x188) and George Ohring (301-763-8154 x352).

Title:	High Resolution Landscape Mosaics for Coral Reef Monitoring
Date/Location:	Friday, 08 February; 14:00 – 15:00 ETZ (SSMC-4, Room #10153, NOS seminar)
Speaker(s):	Pamela Reid, Diego Lirman, Nuno Gracias, Brooke Gintert, Art Gleason (Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, University of Miami)
Abstract:	Significant declines in abundance and distribution of corals in the recent past have prompted the innovation of new tools to assess and monitor coral reef condition. One such tool is the development of landscape video mosaics of reef plots. Spatially accurate mosaics on the order of 20 m x 20 m with mm resolution can be constructed. These 2D mosaics have several advantages over 1D strip mosaics made from video transects. The georeferenced and spatially accurate landscape mosaics allow analysis of the distribution of benthic communities. Coral sizes, impossible to acquire from strip mosaics, can also be accurately measured. In addition, landscape mosaics allow assessment of large features, such as vessel grounding scars, and repeated surveys can be used for change detection. In the past two years, four major enhancements to the basic methodology have been developed: (1) removal of "sunflickering" artifacts based on motion compensated temporal filtering; (2) improved mosaic blending to effectively erase seams between images; (3) integration of a still camera for improved taxonomic resolution; and (4) addition of a heading sensor to allow mosaic construction in areas of high topographic relief. With these added capabilities, landscape mosaics are an outstanding tool for coral reef monitoring, enabling measurements on a plot scale that complement regional scale measurements from satellites and buoy networks and colony scale measurements by divers.
Notes:	This seminar will only be available remotely through teleconference. For phone: dial 888-677-5721, passcode 65858 (please dial 6 once on the line to mute your phone, press 6 again to unmute your phone at the conclusion of the seminar if you wish to ask questions). A copy of the PowerPoint presentation will be made available on the morning of the day of the seminar through the following FTP site: ftp://spo.nos.noaa.gov/Public/CSCORCoral/. For more information on this seminar contact Lauren Chhay (301-713-3155x120, lauren.chhay@noaa.gov).

Title:	Ecological forecasting and spatially explicit assessments of Chesapeake Bay: The role of EcoCheck (NOAA-UMCES Partnership) in engaging the Chesapeake Bay management community
Date/Location:	Monday, 11 February 2008; 12:00 – 13:00 ETZ (SSMC-3, Room #15836, NMFS Office of Habitat Conservation seminar)
Speaker(s):	Dr. Bill Dennison (Vice President for Science Application, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, Cambridge, MD.)
Abstract:	EcoCheck and the Chesapeake Bay Program Bay program have established a novel approach at supporting management through an annual cycle of ecological forecasting and integrated assessment is presented. The cycle consists of: (i) forecasting Chesapeake Bay summer ecological conditions in spring; (ii) tracking summer ecological conditions and assessing the accuracy of the forecast until fall; and, (iii) completing the cycle in early spring by assessing overall Bay health and producing a geographically detailed ecosystem health report card. The ecological forecasts are largely based on the relationship between river flow/nutrient loads and the forecast metric. The ecosystem health report card is based on a spatially derived index of compliance to established thresholds. Index scores are converted to report card grades (A to F) for 15 regions of the Bay. In 2007, the highest scoring region was the Upper Bay (C+) and the lowest scoring region was the Patapsco and Back Rivers (F). Overall, the annual cycle engages management and broader community, forcing constant assessment and communication of information, and ensuring awareness of recent and developing conditions. Finally, the annual cycle raises the profile and legitimacy of the restoration and protection program and in some instances, such as the report card, leads to locally effective management action.
Notes:	For webcast: 1. Click on https://premconf.webex.com/meet/2569761; 2. Enter Meeting Number: 745 450 778; 3. Enter your Name (First and Last) and Email address; 4. Click the Join Now button and you will be joined to the conference. For audio access: Dial-In Number: (877) 239-6423; Participant Code: 341333. For more information please contact Julie Nygard (301-713-0174 x192).

Title:	Government & Academic Scientists: Bridging the Gap with AAAS Fellows
Date/Location:	Tuesday 12 February 2008; 12:00 – 13:00 ETZ; (SSMC-3, Room #4817, NODC Seminar)
Speaker(s):	KiKi Jenkins (1), Eric Toman (2), Daniel Poux (3) 1. AAAS Energy, Environment, Agriculture and Natural Resources Fellow, NOAA, National Marine Fisheries Service 2. AAAS Energy, Environment, Agriculture and Natural Resources Fellow, NOAA, Climate Program Office 3. Associate Director, Science & Technology Policy Fellowships, AAAS
Abstract:	The work of government and academic scientists are often complementary, but the application of this work to policy can sometimes be a controversial and divisive force between the two communities. One means of increasing understanding and cooperation in science policy is via the AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellowship Program. This prestigious program brings accomplished scientists and engineers into 15 federal agencies to work at the intersections of science and policy. For the first time NOAA is hosting AAAS Fellows: Drs. Eric Toman and Kiki Jenkins. In this seminar they will present their perspectives on how the AAAS fellowship provides an opportunity to bridge the gap between academic and government scientists and address today's increasingly complex science and management challenges. They will be joined by Dan Poux, Associate Director of the Science & Technology Policy Fellowships at AAAS who will provide a brief overview of the fellowship program as well as by former fellows currently employed at NOAA. For more information on the fellowship program see: http://fellowships.aaas.org/.
Presentation:	Download [PDF]
Notes:	For VideoTeleConferencing (VTC) access: contact Cheryl.Ingram@noaa.gov (301-713-3284 x155) at least a day before the seminar. For Webcast access: 1) go to http://www.mymeetings.com/nc/join.php?i=442112424&p=NODC4817&t=c); 2) type in other required fields (i.e., your name, e-mail, organization); 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. For phone access: toll free dial 866-743-9902 using a touch-tone phone; when prompted enter participant code 4689608 followed by a "#". For general questions about this seminar, please contact Hernan Garcia (301-713-3290 x184).
About the speaker(s):	Bios (PDF)

Title:	RACE TO THE REEF: Tracking reef fish from open ocean to nursery habitats to coral reefs and back again
Date/Location:	Thursday, 14 February 2008; 12:00 – 13:00 ETZ (SSMC-4, Room #8150, NOS seminar)
Speaker(s):	Samantha Whitcraft, UM-Cooperative Institute for Marine & Atmospheric Science and FIU Biological Sciences Department (Ph.D. Student); and Dr. John Lamkin, NOAA-Fisheries
Abstract:	We are a multi-disciplinary team of scientists dedicated to excellence in early life history research to support applied fisheries management and habitat conservation in the Southeast Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean ecosystems. To that end we study the dynamics of how specific fish species use a variety of habitats during their life-cycle. For example, adult gray snappers (Lutjanus griseus) tend to spawn in deeper coastal waters, usually in association with coral reefs or hard-bottom substrate while coastal mangroves provide the intermediate juvenile habitat for gray snappers that recruit to seagrass beds. To study spawning and larval transport in pelagic waters we conduct large-scale survey cruises that sample, quantify, map, and model the distribution of specific fisheries species. To study smaller-scale estuarine and inshore habitat use and movements of snappers we use acoustic tagging and tracking to determine site fidelity and habitat requirements. Understanding this dynamic ecosystem connectivity is vital to determining essential fish habitat, conservation planning, and fisheries management.
Notes:	Presentations are typically available via a combination of phone & webcast. With a reservation, they can also be available by video conferencing to those with appropriate equipment. For phone: dial 866-541-1377, passcode 142625. For webcast: 1) go to http://www.MyMeetings.com, enter the meeting number 449707376 and passcode NOS8150; 2) enter other required fields; 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. You must also dial the phone number above so you can hear the presentation. For videoconferencing: contact nos.video.conference@noaa.gov for information on setting up a reservation. Please allow adequate time for testing of connections (at least 24 hours or more) if you do not regularly connect with NOS.

Title:	Remote Sensing at the Cooperative Institute for Oceanographic Satellite Studies: CIOSS Research – On the Edge(s)
Date/Location:	Thursday, 14 February 2008; 12:00 - 13:00 ETZ (World Weather Building, Room 707, Camp Springs, MD; NESDIS-STAR seminar)
Speaker(s):	Dr. Ted Strub (Director, CIOSS, Oregon State University)
Abstract:	CIOSS research is “on the edge” in a number of ways. First, by definition, all research occurs on the edge of knowledge. Next, considering spatial dimensions, remote sensing of the ocean occurs at the very top edge of the ocean, due to the strong absorption of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) by water. This is a major difference between oceanographic and atmospheric remote sensing. At CIOSS, we also have a focus on the horizontal edge of the ocean – the coastal environment. Several efforts are underway to push microwave (active and passive) remote sensing closer to the coast, where contamination of EMR signals is caused by reflection and emision from the land into the antenna side-lobes. Finally, some of our ocean color group work is with hyperspectral data, pushing at the edges of spectral and spatial resolution. Examples will be presented of ongoing research at CIOSS in all of these, with a special emphasis on retrieving altimeter data closer to the coast.
Notes:	The seminar can be dialed in at 1-888-730-9134 with passcode 55392. For further information please contact Ralph Ferraro (301-405-0893). World Weather Building Science Center, 5200 Auth Road, Camp Springs, MD 20746.

Title:	Arctic Oceanography Timeline and Data Recovery Since 1860
Date/Location:	Thursday, 21 February 2008; 11:00 – 12:00 ETZ; (SSMC-3, Room #4817, NODC Seminar)
Speaker(s):	Igor Smolyar (NODC)
Abstract:	I will talk about the current status and outlook of the database of the Eastern Arctic Seas and new data products for the International Polar Year 2007-08.
Notes:	For VideoTeleConferencing (VTC) access: contact Cheryl.Ingram@noaa.gov (301-713-3284 x155) at least a day before the seminar. For Webcast access: 1) go to http://www.mymeetings.com/nc/join.php?i=442112424&p=NODC4817&t=c); 2) type in other required fields (i.e., your name, e-mail, organization); 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. For phone access: toll free dial 866-743-9902 using a touch-tone phone; when prompted enter participant code 4689608 followed by a "#". For general questions about this seminar, please contact Hernan Garcia (301-713-3290 x184).
Presentation	Download [PDF]

Title:	Observations and Modeling of Sea Surface Temperature Influence on Surface Winds and the Troposphere
Date/Location:	Monday, 25 February, 2008; 10:00 - 11:00 am (World Weather Building, Room 707, Camp Springs, NESDIS-STAR seminar)
Speaker(s):	Dr. Dudley Chelton (Distinguished Professor of CIOSS, Oregon State University)
Abstract:	A strong and positive coupling between sea surface temperature (SST) and surface wind speed on scales shorter than about 1000 km is well established from satellite measurements of surface winds by the QuikSCAT scatterometer and SST by the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer (AMSR). This ocean-atmosphere interaction is clearly evident in the ECMWF global forecast model, although it is underestimated by about a factor of two. The SST influence on surface winds is barely detectable in the NCEP global forecast model. Simulations with the Weather Research & Forecasting (WRF) mesoscale model suggest that this is due to a combination of inadequate resolution of the SST boundary condition used for the NCEP model and underestimation of vertical mixing in the marine atmospheric boundary layer.
Notes:	The seminar can be dialed in at 1-888-730-9134 with passcode 55392. For further information please contact Xiwu Zhan (301-763-8042 x 14) or Ken Pryor (301-763-8204 x173). World Weather Building Science Center, 5200 Auth Road, Camp Springs, MD 20746.

Title:	Verification of Weather Forecasts
Date/Location:	Wednesday, 27 February 2008, 14:00 - 15:00 ETZ (World Weather Building, Room 707, Camp Springs; JCSDA seminar)
Speaker(s):	Keith Brill (Hydrometeorological Prediction Center, National Centers for Environmental Prediction, National Weather Service, NOAA)
Abstract:	This presentation introduces the audience to some basic concepts, terminology, and practices related to the verification of weather forecasts. To convey the broad scope of the topic, objective verification of both deterministic and probabilistic forecasts is discussed. Anomaly correlations and phase errors are computed for verifying the Hydrometeorological Prediction Center's (HPC) deterministic forecasts of mean sea level pressure. HPC quantitative precipitation forecast verification exemplifies the use of 2 X 2 contingency tables applied to deterministic forecasts. Finally, verification of HPC's probabilistic heat index forecasts demonstrates use of the Brier score and the attribute diagram.
Notes:	Toll Free Domestic #888-322-7905; International #1-210-795-2680, passcode #29036. For questions please contact Ada Armstrong (301-763-8172 x188) and George Ohring (301-763-8154 x352) World Weather Building Science Center, 5200 Auth Road, Camp Springs, MD 20746.

Title:	Communication Goes Two Ways: Keeping the Information Flowing Between Scientists and Policy and Communications Staffs
Date/Location:	Friday, 29 February 2008; 12:00 – 13:00 ETZ (SSMC-4, Room #8150, NOS seminar)
Speaker(s):	Hanna Goss (NOAA Coastal Services Center)
Abstract:	Before scientific research can influence public policy and opinion, scientists typically must first work with policy and communications staff members. Deadlines, along with differing agendas, expectations, and educational backgrounds, are among the many hurdles that must be overcome for these staff members to effectively communicate with one another. Goss will provide some tips, secrets, and shortcuts to keep the information flowing.
Notes:	Presentations are typically available via a combination of phone & webcast. With a reservation, they can also be available by video conferencing to those with appropriate equipment. For phone: dial 866-541-1377, passcode 142625. For webcast: 1) go to http://www.MyMeetings.com, enter the meeting number 449707376 and passcode NOS8150; 2) enter other required fields; 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. You must also dial the phone number above so you can hear the presentation. For videoconferencing: contact nos.video.conference@noaa.gov for information on setting up a reservation. Please allow adequate time for testing of connections (at least 24 hours or more) if you do not regularly connect with NOS. For questions: contact Felix Martinez (Felix.Martinez@noaa.gov).
About the speaker(s):	Hanna Goss is writer and editor of Coastal Services, a national trade journal for coastal resource managers published by the NOAA Coastal Services Center. Goss has more than 20 years of professional writing and communications experience. Her background includes 5 years as a reporter for a daily newspaper, and public relations and marketing positions at educational institutions. Since Goss joined NOAA 9 years ago, Coastal Services has received more than 30 state, regional, national, and international awards.

March

Title:	Hydrologic Tools and Products for Advancing Operational Forecast Systems
Date/Location:	Monday, 03 March 2008; 13:00-14:00 ETZ (SSMC-2, Room #8246, OHD Seminar)
Speaker(s):	Terri S. Hogue (1) and Kristie J. Franz (2) (1) Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles (2) Department of Geological and Atmospheric Sciences, Iowa State University
Abstract:	The hydrologic research community has invested extensive resources into the development and application of increasingly complex models and related configurations (optimization, data assimilation, etc). The key to integration of research advances is an understanding of operational systems and needs, as well as close collaboration with users and system developers. Previous work conducted by the authors, in consultation with NWS personnel, has led to incremental advances in model calibration and forecast verification approaches. Dr. Hogue has developed and integrated automated optimization routines into both the SAC-SMA and SNOW17 operational forecast models. This work evolved from extensive collaborations with several River Forecasting Centers (RFCs) and resulted in a step-wise calibration system (MACS) designed to assist operational calibration efforts. Research by Dr. Franz has included development and application of forecast verification methods for NWS ensemble streamflow predictions (ESP). The current presentation will overview recent work that has been explicitly tied to NWS hydrologic models and the development of methods and products aimed at improving operational river forecasts. Dr. Hogue has developed a remotely-sensed potential evaporation (PE) product designed to be an alternative to the traditional PE inputs used in the SAC-SMA. The product allows for high resolution (daily) spatial estimates which incorporate current land-cover and climate conditions. Dr. Franz undertook an extensive comparison of the SNOW17 and an energy balance snow model, both off-line and coupled to the SAC-SMA model. While the more complex energy balance model did not show a marked improvement over the simpler snow model currently used in operational streamflow prediction, hindcast analysis revealed that, on average, the two models have similar ensemble forecast skill. Follow-on research includes the development of a combined model that contains both SNOW17 and energy balance routines for multi-model ensemble prediction and support of remotely sensed data applications. Additional work by the authors involves development of parsimonious methods for regionalization of SAC-SMA parameters for operational forecast basins in the southeastern United States. The authors will also overview a recently funded project which focuses on coupling data assimilation algorithms with the SAC-SMA and SNOW-17 models for assimilation of both remotely-sensed and ground-based observations.
Notes:	For those of you attending via Goto Meeting, this is the information: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/join/734401399; Conference Call: Telecon: 1-877-774-5038; Passcode: 925335#; Meeting ID: 734-401-399. Notice for the remote callers: We have a new wireless lapel microphone that connects directly to the speakerphone system. Expect a considerable improvement in the sound quality. For questions please contact Pedro.Restrepo@noaa.gov.

Title:	Implications of Aquaculture for Wild Fisheries: The Case of Alaska Wild Salmon
Date/Location:	Wednesday, 05 March 2008; 12:00-13:00 ETZ (SSMC-3, 2nd Floor, NOAA Central Library / NOAA Aquaculture Program Seminar)
Speaker(s):	Dr. Gunnar Knapp (Professor of Economics, Institute of Social and Economic Research, University of Alaska - Anchorage, Alaska)
Abstract:	Worldwide aquaculture production is growing rapidly. The experience of Alaska wild salmon suggests that aquaculture may have significant and wide-ranging potential implications for wild fisheries. Salmon farming exposed wild salmon’s natural monopoly to competition, expanding supply and driving down prices. Wild salmon has faced both inherent as well as self-inflicted challenges in competing with farmed salmon. The economic pressures caused by competition from farmed salmon have been painful and difficult for the wild salmon industry, fishermen and communities. However, these pressures have contributed to changes which have helped make the salmon industry more economically viable. Farmed salmon has greatly expanded the market and created new market opportunities for wild salmon. Farmed salmon has benefited consumers by lowering prices, expanding supply, developing new products, and improving quality of both farmed and wild salmon. Salmon farming has had no apparent direct effects on Alaska wild salmon resources, but could have indirect effects on wild salmon resources which might be positive or negative. The experience of Alaska wild salmon suggests that anyone interested in wild fisheries should pay close attention to what is happening in aquaculture. No wild fishery market—especially for higher valued species—should be taken for granted.
Notes:	For more information contact Mary Lou Cumberpatch or Albert E. Theberge (301-713-2600). Teleconference available for NOAA staff only.

Title:	WSR-88D Super-Resolution
Date/Location:	Wednesday, 05 March 2008; 14:00-15:00 ETZ (SSMC-2, Room 2358; NWS - Office of Science & Technology Seminar)
Speaker(s):	Mike Istok (Systems Engineering Center, Office of Science and Technology)
Abstract:	Super-Resolution WSR-88D will provide data with a sample size of ¼ km by ½ degree, and increase the range of Doppler data to 300 km from the current 230 km. National Severe Storms Laboratory has quantified the potential benefits for tornado detection: 1) 50% greater range of detection of tornado signatures, and 2) 15% to 20% stronger rotational shear measurements. Super Resolution is implemented with WSR-88D Build 10 RDA and RPG software which begins beta testing on March 4, 2008 at Paducah, KY and with AWIPS OB8.2 which began deploying in January 2008. The functional enhancement consists of new super-resolution base products for reflectivity, velocity, and spectrum width for the lowest elevation angles. This seminar will describe the super-resolution data generation process, show examples of super-resolution products, and identify impacts to systems which process WSR-88D Level 2 Data and Level 3 products.
Notes:	For further information please contact Bob Glahn (310-713-1768)

Title:	Why The Weather
Date/Location:	Thursday, 06 March 2008; 11:00 – 12:00 ETZ; (SSMC-3, Room #4817, NODC Seminar)
Speaker(s):	Doria Grimes (Chief, Contract Operations Branch, NOAA Central Library)
Abstract:	Charles Franklin Brooks, the founder and first Secretary of the American Meteorological Society, composed daily public service announcements for the Science Service beginning in May 1923. These daily “blogs” were also authored by Charles Fitzhugh Talman and A. H. Thiessen, and were read on the radio. The announcements were designed to present meteorology to the general public through clear and simple explanations of weather facts and phenomena. “Beware of weather proverbs”, wrote Brooks on May 28, 1923, “or better still, pick the true ones and throw aside those which have not been proved….” “Evening red and morning gray, help the traveller on his way…” The "sun does not draw water”. "Thunder does not sour milk!" This presentation is an analysis and, at times, a humorous summary of weather facts and proverbs as broadcast during this era. The NOAA Central Library is honored to be a custodian of a copy of these radio transcripts which have been recently imaged and are on a prototype web site. The online subject index provides quick navigation through 16+ years of public service announcements. Why The Weather is a joint project of LISD and ISMD of NODC.
Notes:	For VideoTeleConferencing (VTC) access: contact Cheryl.Ingram@noaa.gov (301-713-3284 x155) at least a day before the seminar. For Webcast access: 1) go to http://www.mymeetings.com/nc/join.php?i=442112424&p=NODC4817&t=c); 2) type in other required fields (i.e., your name, e-mail, organization); 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. For phone access: toll free dial 866-743-9902 using a touch-tone phone; when prompted enter participant code 4689608 followed by a "#". For general questions about this seminar, please contact Hernan Garcia (301-713-3290 x184).
Presentation	Download [PDF]

Title:	NOAA's Climate Services
Date/Location:	Friday, 07 March 2008; 13:00 – 14:00 ETZ; (SSMC-3, Room #4527 -Large Conference Room-, NODC Seminar)
Speaker(s):	Dr. Chester Koblinsky (Director, Climate Program Office, Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research, NOAA)
Abstract:	I will discuss how NOAA’s strategy to address the demand for climate services is evolving. Topics of discussion will include the history and evolution of NOAA’s strategy, the emphasis on better integrating research and climate services, and the important role that the regions will play in this effort.
Notes:	For Webcast access: 1) go to http://www.mymeetings.com/nc/join.php?i=442112424&p=NODC4817&t=c); 2) type in required fields (i.e., your name, e-mail, organization); 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. For phone access: toll free dial 866-743-9902 using a touch-tone phone; when prompted enter participant code 4689608 followed by a "#". For general questions about this seminar, please contact Hernan Garcia (301-713-3290 x184). No VideoTeleConferencing (VTC) access.
About the speaker(s):	As Director of NOAA’s Climate Program Office and leader of NOAA’s climate mission, Dr. Koblinsky oversees the development of NOAA’s climate activities and manages the execution of its competitive research programs. NOAA’s climate mission is to /“Understand climate variability and change to enhance society’s ability to plan and respond. Dr. Koblinsky joined NOAA in 2003 after a 25-year career as a research scientist and manager at NASA and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. He has published over 90 scientific papers and lead the development of research satellite missions. He is a recipient of NASA’s Medal for Exceptional Scientific Achievement. Dr. Koblinsky received a Ph.D. in oceanography from Oregon State University.
Presentation	Download [PDF]

Title:	Emerging Infectious Diseases: Evolutionary Accidents Waiting to Happen
Date/Location:	Tuesday, 11 March 2008; 12:00 - 13:00 ETZ (SSMC-3, 2nd Floor NOAA Library, NOAA Restoration Center seminar)
Speaker(s):	Dr. Daniel R. Brooks (Professor, Department of Zoology, University of Toronto and Fellow, Royal Society of Canada)
Abstract:	Today’s bio-diversity crisis is not just one of lost habitats and extinct species. It is also a crisis of emerging infectious diseases (EID’s), such as HIV in humans, Ebola in humans and gorillas, West Nile virus and Avian Influenza in humans and birds, chytrid fungi in amphibians, and distemper in sea lions. There is every reason to take these events seriously, because EID’s appear to have a long evolutionary history. Geographical restriction and specialized transmission mean that in most time periods, most pathogens occur in a small number of host species, often only one, but retain the ability to infect more. However, climate change alters everything. Species move out of their areas of origin and ecosystems change. Pathogens come into contact with susceptible hosts that they have never before encountered, and that never had the opportunity to evolve resistance. As a result, EID’s are not just possible; they are inevitable. Indeed, every episode of climate change has produced them. If EID’s were rare, management through crisis response might be cost-effective. But EID’s are not rare at all. Rather, they are a common outcome of geographic dispersal associated with large-scale environmental changes. We face a potential crisis, however, that stems from our fundamental ignorance about the biosphere, for it is impossible to be proactive about species of pathogens whose existence has not been documented. This makes many pathogens “evolutionary land mines” awaiting us as we relocate to novel habitats, move species around, and alter existing ecosystems. Nevertheless, most resources are still being allocated for responses to known EID’s rather than to assessing the risk of potential EID’s. Simply put, we must complete the global inventory of pathogenic species. Now. The question is whether we find them before they find us.
Notes:	For more information contact Mary.Lou.Cumberpatch@noaa.gov or Albert.E.Theberge.Jr@noaa.gov; 301-713-2600. Teleconference available for NOAA staff only (dial 866-631-5469, participant code 3958086).
About the speaker(s):	Professor Daniel R. Brooks is a parasitologist of world renown and teaches in the Department of Zoology at the University of Toronto, Ontario, CANADA. He was conferred the honor of Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada in 2004 and has received numerous awards and honors for his research contributions from organizations and institutions of higher learning in Canada, the U.S., and other countries. He has conducted research in Canada, the U.S., Colombia, Venezuela, Mexico, Brazil, Costa Rica, Uruguay, and Ecuador. In addition to his teaching and mentoring duties at U.T., he is coordinator of the Inventory of Eukaryotic Parasites of Vertebrates in the Area de Conservación Guanacaste, Costa Rica, a World Heritage Site. He studies parasites in many countries and is interested in the dynamics of emerging infectious diseases around the world. He is currently amassing a database of parasites which will contain all published phylogenetic trees for parasitic helminths (worms) of vertebrates (including DNA information), in an effort to recognize, predict, and prevent parasitic infestations in humans in the future. He views unknown parasites and pathogens as, “…. “evolutionary land mines” awaiting us as we relocate to novel habitats, move species around, and alter existing ecosystems”.

Title:	Nanotechnology and NOAA: Potential Roles in and Contributions to the National Nanotechnology Initiative
Date/Location:	Tuesday, 11 March 2008; 12:00 – 13:00 ETZ (SSMC-4, Room #8150, NOS seminar)
Speaker(s):	Dr. John V. Stone, Michigan State University
Abstract:	Nanotechnology is the understanding and control of matter at dimensions of roughly 1 to 100 nanometers, where unique phenomena enable novel applications. Encompassing nanoscale science, engineering and technology, nanotechnology involves imaging, measuring, modeling, and manipulating matter at this length scale. Given nanotechnology’s potential to transcend traditional disciplinary and sectoral boundaries, the U.S. Congress enacted the ‘21st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act’ (108 P.L. 153, 2003), to coordinate multiagency efforts in these areas. Twenty-seven federal agencies and departments presently participate in the NNI (including the Department of Commerce), eleven of which have research and development (R&D) budgets for nanotechnology. Other federal organizations contribute studies of the applications from those agencies performing R&D, as well as other collaborations. Nanotechnologies have been characterized as both holding ‘promise’ and posing ‘peril.’ For example, in agriculture, nano-engineered fertilizers and pesticides may drastically reduce reliance on and thus non-point source pollution from their more conventional cousins; and yet, they may also pose new environmental and human health & safety – as well as socio-economic – risks and impacts. Similarly, nanotechnologies are being developed for water quality and coastal monitoring and management; yet, as in the agrifood sector, these very applications may present new uncertainties for aquatic environments and resources, as well as for the agencies charged with managing them. This presentation considers potential NOAA roles in and contributions to the NNI, particularly those related to the NNI’s interests in public engagement as a mechanism for addressing the ethical, legal, and social issues (ELSI) associated with various nanotechnology applications. The presentation is inspired, in part, by NOAA’s Draft Human Dimensions Strategic Plan for 2008-13, which briefly discusses a “nanotechnology example;” it is intended to spur dialogue in this area between NOAA and the NNI. Drawing on NSF-funded research on adapting Cooperative Extension as a model for public engagement in agrifood nanotechnology, this presentation argues that Sea Grant Extension is a strong NOAA resource with great potential to fulfill the NNI’s public engagement and ELSI interests in the aquatic resource applications and implications of nanotechnology. This presentation will outline the key components of the adapted Extension model, wherein Extension Educators receive training on potential nanotechnology applications in a given sector (e.g. ‘agrifood,’ ‘marine resources,’ etc.) and work at a grass-roots level to link public perceptions of risk and opportunity to nanotechnology policy-makers and other stakeholder groups, with the overall goal of advancing socially responsive nanotechnology policies across all NNI member agencies.
Notes:	Presentations are typically available via a combination of phone & webcast. With a reservation, they can also be available by video conferencing to those with appropriate equipment. For phone: dial 866-541-1377, passcode 142625. For webcast: 1) go to http://www.MyMeetings.com, enter the meeting number 449707376 and passcode NOS8150; 2) enter other required fields; 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. You must also dial the phone number above so you can hear the presentation. For videoconferencing: contact nos.video.conference@noaa.gov for information on setting up a reservation. Please allow adequate time for testing of connections (at least 24 hours or more) if you do not regularly connect with NOS. For questions: contact Felix Martinez.
About the speaker(s):	Dr. Stone is an Applied Anthropologist and Senior Research Scientist at the Institute for Food and Agricultural Standards of the Michigan State University. He is currently involved in the Project on Social and Ethical Dimensions of Agrifood Nanotechnology.

Title:	The Orbiting Carbon Observatory (OCO): Measuring CO2 from Space
Date/Location:	Wednesday, 19 March 2008, (World Weather Building, Room 707, Camp Springs, MD; JCSDA seminar)
Speaker(s):	David Crisp ( NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory )
Abstract:	The Orbiting Carbon Observatory (OCO) is currently under development by the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory to identify and characterize natural CO2 sinks. This Earth System Science Pathfinder mission is scheduled for launch in December 2008. During its nominal two-year operational lifetime, OCO will make space-based measurements of CO2 and molecular oxygen (O2) over the sunlit hemisphere of the Earth. These data will be analyzed with remote sensing algorithms to retrieve estimates of the column- averaged CO2 dry air mole fraction, XCO2 with the accuracy and sampling resolution needed to characterize surface sources and sinks of CO2 on regional scales over the entire globe. The observatory consists of a dedicated spacecraft bus that carries and points a single instrument. This instrument incorporates 3 high-resolution grating spectrometers that make coincident measurements of reflected sunlight in near-infrared CO2 and molecular oxygen (O2) bands. The pre-flight qualification and calibration testing of the OCO instrument has just been completed. These tests describe the instrument's radiometric, spectral, and spatial performance. The end-to-end instrument performance was verified by recording atmospheric solar spectra with the flight instrument and comparing these results to spectra recorded simultaneously from a collocated ground-based high-resolution Fourier transform spectrometer. This comparison indicates that the instrument meets or exceeds its design objectives and will provide excellent data for XCO2 retrievals.
Notes:	For questions please contact Ada Armstrong (301-763-8172 x188) and George Ohring (301-763-8154 x352). World Weather Building Science Center, 5200 Auth Road, Camp Springs, MD 20746.

Title:	How Climate Change Places Ice-Dependent Beringian Mammals At Risk
Date/Location:	Thursday, 20 March 2008; 11:30 - 13:00 ETZ (SSMC-3, 2nd Floor, NOAA Central Library Seminar)
Speaker(s):	G. Carlton Ray (Professor, University of Virginia)
Abstract:	TBD
Notes:	For more information contact Mary Lou Cumberpatch or Albert E Theberge; 301-713-2600.
About the speaker(s):	Professor Ray has years of experience monitoring Arctic populations of marine mammals and their habitats.

Title:	Hot Sour Soup: Good for Colds, Bad for Corals
Date/Location:	Thursday, March 20, 2008, 12:00-13:00 ETZ (World Weather Building, Room 707, Camp Springs, NESDIS-STAR seminar)
Speaker(s):	Mark Eakin (oceanographer, STAR / SOCD / MEB and Coordinator, NOAA's Coral Reef Watch )
Abstract:	Coral reefs live within a fairly narrow envelope of environmental conditions constrained by water temperatures, light, salinity, nutrients, bathymetry and the aragonite saturation state of seawater. As documented in numerous studies, the world’s coral reefs are "in crisis" as a result of human impacts on their environment. While local stresses currently dominate, coral reefs are increasingly confronted with global-scale changes due to rising greenhouse gas concentrations. These changes are rapidly modifying the environmental envelope of coral reefs through both increased thermal stress and ocean acidification. In the former case, there is a well-documented relationship between thermal stress and the response of corals that include coral bleaching, disease, and mortality. Clear tolerance thresholds exist beyond which high temperature and accumulated thermal stress have deleterious effects. However, the synergistic effects of increasing temperature and ocean acidification are not yet fully understood. At this time, there is mounting concern that decreasing pH and aragonite saturation state will cause net reef accretion to cease or become negative. The threshold at which this could occur is likely to be reached much sooner than the pH drop necessary to induce carbonate dissolution. Both the thermal and chemical limits that control coral survival and reef growth will likely be passed before 2100 assuming even conservative projections reported in the 4th Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. This talk, based in part on the review paper highlighted with the cover of Science on 14 December, will discuss these thresholds and their ramifications for ecosystems and resource management.
Notes:	Dial-in Information 866-541-9958; Passcode: 2531766. Contact Ralph Ferraro ( 301-405-0893). See http://www.orbit.nesdis.noaa.gov/star/seminars.php for presentations 24 hours before the talk.
About the speaker(s):	See http://www.star.nesdis.noaa.gov/star/Eakin_M.php

Title:	Behavioral Response Study (BRS) of Deep-Diving Cetaceans in Tongue of the Ocean, Bahamas
Date/Location:	Friday, 21 March 2008; 12:00 - 13:00 ETZ (SSMC-3, 2nd Floor, NOAA Central Library Seminar)
Speaker(s):	Dr. Brandon Southall (Director, NOAA Ocean Acoustics Program)
Abstract:	Initial results are reported from a study designed to provide science-based approaches for mitigating risk of sonar to beaked and other whales. The study on beaked and other whale behavioral responses to mid-frequency sonar and other sounds was conducted at the AUTEC range near Andros Island, Bahamas, where Blainvilles beaked whales (/Mesoplodon densirostris/) can regularly be detected using passive acoustic monitoring of their echolocation clicks. Tags recorded sound at the whale and behavior of the whale. Data were collected from 10 tags; 6 on Blainvilles beaked whales, 4 on pilot whales. 109 hours of data were collected from tags; 74h from beaked whales; 34h from pilot whales. Playbacks of mid-frequency sonar and killer whale sounds were performed on 1 tagged beaked whale and 2 tagged pilot whales.The tagged beaked whale responded to both sonar and killer whale sounds by premature cessation of clicking during foraging dives (RL = ~117 dB re 1 µPa for the killer whale sound, ~145 dB for the sonar), with unusually slow and long ascents. Following the two exposures, the beaked whale exhibited sustained and directed avoidance of the area for at least 10 hours.
Notes:	For Teleconference and further information please contact Mary.Lou.Cumberpatch@noaa.gov
About the speaker:	Dr. Southall is a fisheries biologist and director of NOAA's Ocean Acoustics Program within the NOAA Fisheries Office of Science and Technology. Brandon completed graduate studies (M.S. in Marine Science in 1998 and a Ph.D. in Ocean Sciences in 2002) on hearing in seals and sea lions as well as effects of noise on their hearing, including: auditory masking, temporary threshold shifts, and age-related hearing loss. He also conducted and continues fieldwork on northern elephant seal acoustic communication, measuring vocalization source levels, natural ambient noise conditions, assessing context-specificity of vocal parameters, and signal directionality. Dr. Southall joined the NOAA Fisheries Acoustics program in 2003 and has been involved in all aspects of this program, including: the development of acoustic exposure criteria for marine mammals, organizing and serving as the meeting chair for two international symposiums on shipping noise and marine mammals, and organizing an ongoing series of educational lectures at nearly 20 locations across the nation on marine noise issues. He is also the principal investigator of the behavioral response study being conducted in the Bahamas with several dozen partners from academia, conservation, and government scientists from eight countries. He has three adorable children with whom he enjoys fishing and playing baseball.

Title:	Linking land use, fisheries and economics - examples from the Patuxent River Synthesis project
Date/Location:	Wednesday, 26 March 2008; 12:00 – 13:00 ETZ (SSMC-4, Room #8150, NOS seminar)
Speaker(s):	Denise Breitburg (Smithsonian Environmental Research Center)
Abstract:	Land use, economics, food webs and fisheries are inextricably linked. Although understanding the linkages and incorporating them in a predictive framework can be challenging, these are critical steps towards ecosystem based management of our coastal systems and their fisheries. The COASTES and Synthesis projects have focused on the Patuxent River, a subestuary of Chesapeake Bay, to consider how multiple stressors influenced by both the terrestrial landscape and economic drivers affect the estuarine food web, including economically and ecologically important fish and shellfish species. I will focus on a series of management-relevant models and analyses developed as part of the Synthesis project including (1) a new Universal Soils Loss equation, (2) a linked Land Use-Water Quality-Fish Survival-Economic Benefit modeling study that considers how the spatial scale of nutrient management affects the ecological and economic benefits, (3) water quality models that incorporate contaminants such as arsenic and copper, (4) food web models that examine how nutrient enrichment and oyster restoration might ultimately affect forage fish production in Chesapeake Bay, and (5) analyses of how principals of enforcement economics can inform environmental management.
Notes:	Presentations are typically available via a combination of phone & webcast. With a reservation, they can also be available by video conferencing to those with appropriate equipment. For phone: dial 866-541-1377, passcode 142625. For webcast: 1) go to http://www.MyMeetings.com, enter the meeting number 449707376 and passcode NOS8150; 2) enter other required fields; 3) indicate that you have read the Privacy Policy; 4) click on Proceed. You must also dial the phone number above so you can hear the presentation. For videoconferencing: contact nos.video.conference@noaa.gov for information on setting up a reservation. Please allow adequate time for testing of connections (at least 24 hours or more) if you do not regularly connect with NOS. For questions: contact Felix Martinez (Felix.Martinez@noaa.gov).
About the speaker:	Dr. Breitburg received her MS (1982) and PhD (1984) in marine ecology from the University of California at Santa Barbara. She was a curator at the Academy of Natural Sciences Estuarine Research Center from 1984-2003, and have been a Senior Scientist at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center since 2004. She is interested in how natural and human influences on individual animals are translated to community and ecosystem-level effects and spatial patterns in the environment. Her research has included work on fish, oysters and gelatinous zooplankton. She has served on the Chesapeake Bay Program Scientific and Technical Advisory Panel, NRC panels (most recently reviewing the Ocean Research Priorities Plan), and the governing boards of the Coastal and Estuarine

April

Title:	Real-time assimilation of streamflow, precipitation and potential evaporation data into lumped SAC via 2DVAR and estimation and local optimization of lumped model parameters via AB_OPT – A progress report and plans
Date/Location:	Wednesday 03 April 2008; 13:00 - 14:30 ETZ (SSMC-2, Room 8246; OHD Hydrologic Ensemble Prediction (HEP) Seminar)
Speaker(s):	D.J. Seo (1,2), Victor Koren (1), Lee Cajina (1), Bob Corby (3), Tracy Howieson (3), Chip Gobs (1), Vadim Kuzmin (4). (1) NOAA/NWS/Office of Hydrologic Development; (2) University Corporation for Atmospheric Research; (3) NOAA/NWS/West Gulf River Forecast Center; (4) University of Melbourne, Australia
Abstract:	In this presentation, we summarize the progress of the “VAR” project to date, specific outcomes of and from the project and plans for the next steps for discussion. A collaboration between OHD and WGRFC, the project began in 2001 with the immediate goal of “implementing a prototype at a forecast office”. Since then, we developed (Seo et al. 2003a) and implemented (Seo et al. 2003b) a prototype at WGRFC for experimental operation, and have continued enhancement based on operational experience and objective and rigorous performance evaluation (Seo et al. 2008). The latest version has been/is being implemented in the Site-Specific Hydrologic Prediction (SSHP) System for OB9 release. The potency and efficacy of data assimilation (DA) hinges on the quality of the models (SAC, UHG). The more accurate the models (i.e. the smaller the structural and parametric errors) are, the larger the improvement from DA is. To support 2DVAR and 1-hr lumped modeling of SAC and UHG in general, we also developed in 2003 a parameter estimation and local optimization tool, AB_OPT, which underwent a number of enhancements since then to the current form (Kuzmin et al. 2008). A stand-alone tool, AB_OPT performs estimation of long-term biases in MAPX and MAPE, estimation of empirical UHG and local/limited optimization of the SAC parameters. A salient shortcoming of the “variational assimilation” methodology is that it does not, in its original form, provide uncertainty estimates. For planned infusion into Phase 2 of the eXperimental Ensemble Forecast System (XEFS), we have started development of an ensemble filter, a variant of Maximum Likelihood Ensemble Filter (MLEF, Zupanski 2005), that combines the strengths of variational assimilation and ensemble Kalman filter methodologies. We will share some examples that illustrate potential and science issues. In order to meet the AHPS goal of providing uncertainty information to most forecast points, ensemble DA extend to downstream locations. Time-permitting, we will describe an exploratory effort toward development of a real-time updating capability for hydrologic routing through examples from WGRFC.
Notes:	OHD Hydrologic Ensemble Prediction (HEP) Seminar. For further information about this seminar please contact Ken Pavelle. Conference Call: (866) 713-2373 Code: 9960047; GotoMeeting: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/join/171404181; Meeting ID: 171-404-181.