An Integrated International Approach to Arctic Ocean Observations for Society (A Legacy of the International Polar Year)

This poster takes a broad pan-Arctic approach to describe a plan for sustained ocean observations in the arctic region directed to providing societal benefits, focusing on fulfilling the ocean component of the Global Climate Observing System in the arctic region, while serving other needs as well. It describes the most important in situ platforms and addresses associated modeling and analysis activities. The paper starts with a description of the in situ Arctic Observing Network/System required for ocean physics, ocean biology and biogeochemistry, sea ice and the atmosphere over the Arctic Ocean. It also discusses remote sensing techniques for the Arctic, and issues regarding data management, organization and Exclusive Economic Zones. It concludes by stating that the key priorities for sustained observations appear at this time to be: 1. Estimating change in heat and fresh water content of the Arctic Ocean and monitoring the influx of heat and salt from the Atlantic and Pacific; 2. Estimating change in sea ice extent and thickness and observing the factors that control sea ice growth and melt; 3. Observing the seasonal evolution of land fast ice, coastal surface currents and coastal storm surge; and 4. Estimating ecosystem response to change in physical and chemical conditions in the ocean, including observing productivity, ecosystem structure and populations of key species and groups.