Gulf of America – GCOOS
Our Mission
The Gulf of America Coastal Ocean Observing System is the only certified regional association focused solely on the Gulf, where it provides timely, reliable, accurate and on-demand information on the open ocean and coastal ocean waters.
GCOOS operates in support of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida communities, helping to ensure a healthy, clean, productive ocean and resilient coastal zone.
Distinguishing Characteristics
- Water quality monitoring for biological parameters, including ocean acidification and harmful algal blooms, especially the development of the Red Tide Respiratory Forecast.
- Glider operations coordinating entity in support of enhanced hurricane modeling and forecasting abilities to further protect at-risk communities in the Gulf and beyond; creation of a glider dashboard for operators and data users.
- Enhancing high-frequency radar coverage.
- Outreach and education to stakeholders across the Gulf so communities can make informed decisions about a variety of coastal and open-ocean activities — from recreational activities to emergency response.
- Supporting the addition and dissemination of new data streams as they become available, along with the data management and cyberinfrastructure systems that underpin the GCOOS data portal.
At a Glance
GCOOS serves as a Regional Association responsible for operating and maintaining a certified Regional Coastal Observing System for the U.S. Continental Shelf area bounded on the northeast, north, and northwest by the States of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida and extending to the seaward boundary with Mexico and Cuba and its estuaries.
Website
GCOOS Data Portal
What We Do
Executive Director
General Inquiries
Regional Coverage
