NOAA's National Ocean Service

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A shared mission for a cleaner Gulf Coast

Abandoned and derelict vessels leach pollutants into marine ecosystems, endanger boaters, and block vital waterways. With NOS’s support, communities throughout the Gulf Coast are coming together to clean up their local waters.

RESPONSE AND RESTORATION

The U.S. Coast Guard launches an uncrewed aircraft system from the Coast Guard Cutter Blackfin off the coast of Santa Barbara, California. Credit: U.S. Coast Guard.

From training to tactic: NOS harnesses drone potential for oil spill response

Oil spills are a race against time and every second matters. To accelerate the response to oil spills and other disasters, NOS has partnered with the U.S. Coast Guard to launch new drones that will serve as a powerful new tool for environmental protection.

RESPONSE AND RESTORATION

Rear Admiral (select) Christiaan van Westendorp to serve as the next Coast Survey Director

The Director of the Office of Coast Survey leads NOAA’s ocean mapping and nautical charting program, which includes surveying the seafloor, developing navigation products, services, and data-driven models, and reopening ports and waterways following disasters.

CHARTING

Satellite image of a large hurricane with a clear eyewall.

Undercurrents of innovation: History of the Roberts radio current meter

This current meter system took one of NOAA’s predecessor agencies, the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey, from manual to automatic instrumentation data collection, advancing both physical oceanography and marine navigation technologies.

Hurricane season 2025: NOS innovations in preparedness and response

The 2025 hurricane season has officially concluded, and NOS teams were there every step of the way, helping on the ground, from the sea, and in the clouds.

NOAA tide gauges support tsunami response

Real-time data from NOAA’s tide gauges enables the quick detection of changing water levels caused by tsunamis. This improves the accuracy of forecasts and allows emergency managers and communities to make informed decisions and take life-saving measures with confidence.

Around the Ocean Service

NOAA and partners evaluate vital Wisconsin wetlands to reduce flood risk
COASTAL MANAGEMENT
Scientists describe newly discovered red alga from Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary
SANCTUARIES
Experts evaluate management options for Mississippi/Alabama coastline
COASTAL SCIENCE
New environmental sensitivity index data for Lake Michigan
RESPONSE AND RESTORATION

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NOAA’s National Ocean Service

tides and currents

nautical charts

career profiles

harmful algal blooms

sea level
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