Bipartisan Leadership in Ocean Observing Award Given to Rep. Bonamici

On Ocean Data Day, the IOOS Association awarded a Bipartisan Leadership in Ocean Observing Award to Rep. Suzanne Bonamici of Oregon. She is the Bipartisan Ocean Caucus co-chair, ICOOS Act Reauthorization co-sponsor, and a champion for IOOS and understanding the oceans. Her dedication and skill at bipartisan work makes a real difference to the Pacific Northwest and NANOOS. The event also hosted a Congressional briefing on the role of ocean data in supporting America's seafood economy: from shellfish farms to lobster boats. A panel of experts shared their perspectives, including NANOOS Board Member Margaret Pilaro, Executive Director of the Pacific Coast Shellfish Growers Association, representing shellfish growers and the aquaculture industry in the NANOOS region and across the Pacific Coast. Margaret spoke to the practical value of ocean and coastal data for an industry that relies on water quality, environmental conditions, and the ability to plan around change.