It’s fall, so it’s also time for the IOOS Association Fall Meeting! Representatives from across U.S. IOOS gathered last month in Traverse City, Michigan where the Great Lakes Observing System hosted the 2025 event. This semi-annual meeting brought together about 65 participants including leadership and staff from the IOOS Office, IOOS Association, and the IOOS Regional Associations to discuss strategic planning, communications, and budget scenarios.
NOS Deputy Assistant Administrator Rachael Dempsey gave remarks and highlighted NOS priorities including supporting national and environmental security, economic development, and the safety of lives and property. She emphasized that NOS has the tools necessary to meet the demands and challenges associated with the ocean and coasts and that NOAA Leadership has also made a commitment to unleash the full potential of the Ocean Economy and support innovation for NOAA’s observing systems. Other key agenda items included an update from the IOOS Program Office, highlights from the Great Lakes Observing System (GLOS), a strategic communications and messaging discussion, and an analysis of the successes of the last year of IOOS work.
Bringing together representatives from all across IOOS is always invigorating. It’s a prime time to share and network ideas, roll out new developments, update each other on what’s going on all around the country, and of course spend some time building team spirit. There’s something happening at IOOS that touches everyone, and as we head into another year together, we can’t wait to show you the new ways we’re working to make businesses, industries, communities, and people stronger and safer every day.