Hi all,

Coalition member ELPC alerted us to a letter urging Congress to step in to protect NOAA and its ability to continue to provide critical services and research. The Ocean Defense Initiative is leading this letter, you can see more information and a link to sign on below. 
NOAA is an important partner in implementing the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and is responsible for programs specific to the Great Lakes.  Many NOAA Programs are included in the HOW Coalition's FY25 funding requests. 

Established by President Richard Nixon in 1970, NOAA has provided life-saving weather forecasting, scientific research, and emergency preparedness services to the American people for more than 50 years. Whether it’s tracking hurricanes or safeguarding the country’s fisheries, NOAA is vital to the everyday lives and operations of countless communities and businesses that stretch across our nation and the world. 

Alarmingly, statements and actions from the new administration indicate intent to downsize, break apart, or even eliminate NOAA. If not stopped, further action by the administration to interfere with NOAA’s critical services and mission could endanger our economy, health, public safety, and national security.

Undermining NOAA’s operations could risk the safety of millions of Americans and destabilize countless industries, from farming and fisheries to energy and finance, threatening job losses and economic downturn. Congress must reject efforts to diminish this critical agency–for the future of our health, safety, economies, communities, and ocean and coastal resources.

Please sign on and share this letter broadly with your networks, including business partners and organizations who support and value NOAA's mission and services. Please sign on before EOD Friday February 21st. 

Sincerely,

Celia Haven
Field Director
Healing Our Waters – Great Lakes Coalition