DURHAM, N.H. — The National Science and Technology Council Joint Subcommittee on Ocean Science and Technology invites the input of ocean science professionals on the Ocean Research Priorities Plan (ORPP). Called for in the U.S. Ocean Action Plan, ORPP, in conjunction with a follow-on Implementation Strategy, will describe a vision for U.S. ocean science and technology, outline the challenges to be addressed, identify key themes, specify goals for each theme and a time frame for their achievement, and address implications for the resources use or prioritization.

The Subcommittee will hold a public workshop on April 18-20, 2006, in Denver, Colorado. Members from the research community, government representatives (federal, state, tribal, and local), industry groups, international representatives, non-governmental organizations, and any individuals interested in helping guide national ocean research are invited to attend. For more information on the ORPP and the workshop, visit http://ocean.ceq.gov/about/jsost_workshop/welcome.html

You will also have an opportunity to provide comments on ORPP during a 45-day public comment period, scheduled to begin March 2006. Check back to ORPP worskhop web site http://ocean.ceq.gov/about/jsost_workshop/welcome.html for more information.

Or, contact
Shelby E. Walker
USGCRP/CCSP Office
1717 Pennsylvania Ave., Suite 250
Washington, DC 20006
T: 202-419-3464
F: 202-223-3064
E: swalker@usgcrp.gov