COS 205-2 - CANCELLED - Prioritizing the unmet needs and future of US Arctic Observing Networks

Abstract: The Arctic is warming at four times the rate of the rest of the planet with consequences for security, livelihoods, ecosystems and biodiversity, yet it remains one of the most sparsely observed regions of our planet. Recognizing the significant impacts of the changing climate in the Arctic and deficit in observing, The US Congressional House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies requested “a report on the need to establish and maintain a sustained Arctic observing network.” Over the course of the past year, we conducted a literature synthesis of 45 seminal articles identified by the US Arctic Observing Network (US AON) Board and a federal survey to identify greatest agency needs. We present the results which revealed four major needs for (1) An international network of critical sustained observations and infrastructure (2) A shared data management system that is open, easily discoverable, accessible, and usable across observing networks; (3) Comprehensive human and technological capacity building; in order to(4) Bridge high priority temporal and spatial gaps in marine, terrestrial, atmospheric, and social system observations. Any efforts, however, in this direction will require an implementation plan with costs that outline agency responsibilities as well as meaningful engagement of Indigenous communities. We end the presentation with examples to map out what an implementation plan might look like for a successful and solicit input on how to motivate action.