The survey allows CPO's Marine Ecosystem Risk Team (MERT) to ensure that it is working with sanctuaries in meaningful and useful ways that help sanctuary staff and managers, thus maximizing the value of the CPO-NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries relationship.

NOAA is soliciting proposals to increase our understanding of the combined impacts of multiple stressors, including harmful algal blooms, deoxygenation, ocean acidification, and increasing temperatures, on the function and health of marine ecosystems within the context of climate change. NOAA expects to fund 1–2 projects for up to four years in duration, with an approximate annual budget of $1 million, not to exceed $4 million in total.

Approximately $15 million will be available for about 90 new awards, pending budget appropriations, with most awards funded between $50,000 and $300,000 per year.

The report summarizes national marine sanctuary climate science and information needs gathered through collaborative, cross-NOAA discussions both during the workshop as well as in focus groups and other conversations over the preceding year.

This learning exchange will help increase awareness of drought impacts on Sanctuary management and available National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS) tools, while also advancing the goal of the Marine Ecosystem Risk Team (MERT) to reinforce and expand the application of climate science in National Marine Sanctuaries.