The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Organization Organic Act

H.R. 9708, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Organic Act, recognizes the relationship between oceans and the atmosphere and the need for a national ocean policy. The bill designates NOAA as the lead civilian agency with responsibility for coordinating and carrying out the policy. During the past 4 years, GAO reviewed the following NOAA activities: weather modification research, coastal zone management, weather forecasting, specialized weather services, Outer Continental Shelf development environmental studies, and environmental monitoring by satellite. Some of the problems noted in the programs were insufficient resources, ineffective coordination with other agencies and with States, and needs for better definitions of policy and responsibilities. The studies pointed to the need for a strong lead agency to plan, coordinate, and improve the management of atmospheric science activities.