Fog Observations and Geographic Forecasting Act
H.R. 3705, titled the Fog Observations and Geographic Forecasting Act, would require the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere (a NOAA leadership role) to conduct a project aimed at improving forecasts of coastal marine fog. The overarching purpose is to boost vessel safety and lessen the economic harm caused by fog events. The bill directs NOAA to expand and improve observational data (across federal and commercial platforms), enhance marine fog modeling and forecast capability, and improve the communication and usefulness of fog advisories. It also emphasizes stakeholder and tribal engagement and requires a detailed project plan within one year that outlines research, development, and technology transfer activities, resources, and timelines. In essence, the bill codifies a NOAA-led effort to gather more fog-related data, upgrade forecasting tools, and deliver clearer, more actionable information to mariners and the public, with the aim of reducing accidents, delays, and economic losses tied to coastal fog events.
Key Points
- 1Mandate and scope: The Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere must lead a project to improve forecasts of coastal marine fog, with a focus on safety and economic impact reduction.
- 2Data and observation enhancements: Increase marine-based observations using a mix of federal platforms and commercially acquired data, including buoys, weather stations (measuring visibility, temperature, dew point, wind), stationary or drifting platforms, vessels, unmanned systems, and remote sensing (including rapid-refresh hyperspectral satellite imagery).
- 3Modeling goals: Advance geographic coverage, resolution, forecast skill, and accuracy of marine fog models, potentially expanding to additional locations and improving marine channel forecast capabilities.
- 4Communication and decision support: Improve the way NOAA communicates fog advisories and risks to the public, and provide decision-support services that turn environmental information into actionable guidance for recipients of fog advisories.
- 5Stakeholder and tribal engagement: The Under Secretary must engage with public and private stakeholders and with Indian tribes in planning, development, and implementation of the project.
- 6Planning requirement: A project plan detailing research, development, technology transfer activities, resources, and timelines must be submitted within one year of enactment.