NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION (NOAA)

An agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration was formed in 1970, but its origins may actually be traced as far back as 1807 when President Thomas Jefferson ordered a survey of the new nation's coastline. Today, NOAA has translated the United States' geographic, atmospheric, oceanic, and meteorological informational needs into an organization concentrating in the following principal areas: (1) Research and Analysis: NOAA researchers and scientists in the areas of oceanography, meteorology, biology, and physics explore the sea and air for new clues aimed at understanding or reversing environmental damage such as ozone depletion, the greenhouse effect, and possible global warming; (2) Satellite Imaging and Mapping: NOAA's satellites provide essential information for accurate weather forecasts, monitor winter snowpack conditions across the country, and gauge the health of coastal estuaries; (3) Data Compilation and Dissemination: The results of NOAA's data collection, satellite mapping, and research and analysis affords vast stores of information in NOAA's global data centers available for climate, oceanographic and geophysical reports vital to the public and industry; (4) Forecasting and Weather Warning: Through the National Weather Service (NWS), NOAA provides extensive information and warnings when severe weather threatens life and property.