The lobstermen in Jonesport, Maine, were out untying their boats on April 27, 2023, ready to head out and fish for the day. The weather data from the Integrated Ocean Observing System was on display in Cincinnati on May 15, 2025. The system provides crucial information for those like Captain Ed Enos, a harbor pilot in Hawaii, who rely on real-time data to navigate safely through treacherous waters.
Captain Enos depends on wind speeds, current strength, and wave swells to guide ships into port. His lifeline is his cellphone, which allows him to access the Integrated Ocean Observing System with just a few taps. However, President Donald Trump’s plan to cut all federal funding for the system’s regional operations could spell disaster for those who depend on it. Scientists warn that the cuts could lead to a halt in efforts to gather essential data for navigating harbors, predicting hurricanes, and planning tsunami escape routes.
The Integrated Ocean Observing System consists of 11 regional associations across states and territories like Hawaii, Alaska, and Washington. These associations use various tools like buoys, drones, and radar installations to monitor water temperature, wind speed, wave heights, and current strength. The data collected is crucial for cruise ship pilots, the military, and even commercial anglers. It feeds into National Weather Service forecasts and helps track toxic algal blooms, hurricane intensity, and even tiger sharks.
The proposed budget cuts have left network administrators and users in shock. The leaked memo outlining the cuts offers no clear justification for the decision. Without federal funding, the future of the system is uncertain. While some associations may find alternative sources of funding, the loss of federal support would create significant challenges. The impact of these cuts could lead to gaps in data collection and the loss of valuable partnerships built over the years. The potential consequences of these cuts are far-reaching and could have a detrimental effect on those who rely on the system for vital information.
