Science for Decisionmaking

The coastlines of the United States are beautiful places to live, work and play. But, they are also very fragile areas whose ecosystems are vulnerable to mismanagement. There are many complex issues facing the ocean science community at the federal, state and local levels—this report reflects the conclusions and recommendations of the National Academies drawing on discussions with USGS as well as input from potential users, clients and collaborators of the Coastal and Marine Geology Program.Table of ContentsFront MatterExecutive Summary1 Introduction2 The Coastal and Marine Geology Program3 Future Program Emphasis4 The Federal Role5 Program Plan RecommendationsReferencesAppendixesA: Committee and Staff BiographiesB: Acronyms and AbbreviationsC: Selected Responses to USGS Staff Questionnaire and Clients and Collaborators QuestionnaireD: The Relation Between the USGS Geologic Division Goals and the Coastal and Marine Geology ProgramE: Summary Budget DataF: The U.S. Geological Survey Coastal and Marine Geology ProgramColor Plates 1-7