Please mark your calendars for the 6th Symposium on the Impacts of an Ice-Diminishing Arctic on Naval and Maritime Operations, co-hosted by the U.S. National Ice Center (NIC) and the U.S. Arctic Research Commission (USARC), July 14-16, 2015 at the Naval Heritage Center, 701 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC.
Background:
Co-hosted by U.S. National/Naval Ice Center (NIC) and the U.S. Arctic Research Commission (USARC).
A biennial symposium originating in 2001 that focuses on U. S. naval operations and national strategic issues in an "ice-free Arctic”
Symposia in 2007, 2009, 2011 and 2013 expanded the discussion to include other nations and the impacts on their maritime operations in an "ice-diminishing Arctic” such as commercial transportation, oil and gas exploration and exploitation, fisheries, and oceanographic research. The continuing reduction in Arctic sea ice extent remains a central focus.
In 2007, VADM Morgan (OPNAV N3/N5) provided remarks on Navy's Maritime Strategy, with additional participation from Senator Murkowski (AK) and Commandant Thad Allen, (USCG).
In 2009, ADM Allen, Dr. Lubchenco (NOAA Administrator), Senator Begich (AK) and RADM Titley were key speakers.
in 2011, ADM Roughead, (CNO) and Senator Murkowski (AK) raised concerns about how current and future shipping activities are impacting the Arctic.
In 2013, Dr. Sullivan, Acting NOAA Administrator, ADM Papp, Commandant, USCG,and RADM White addressed changing Arctic maritime conditions.
Discussion:
This symposium brings together nationally and internationally recognized experts on Arctic observations, climate change, and maritime operations.
High-level opening remarks are anticipated from NOAA, Navy, USCG, USARC, Canadian Coast Guard, and other U.S. and international government representatives; special invitations to be sent to the Alaska Congressional Delegation and from representatives from other Arctic nations.
The 2015 symposium program will be influenced by relevant Arctic-related events since the 2013 symposium, including:
2015's peak winter Arctic sea ice extent occurred Feb. 25, 2015, a maximum that is not only early but is the lowest in the satellite record.
Despite a modest increase in the age and thickness of sea ice in 2014 compared to 2013, the long-term evidence points to continued global warming and loss of sea ice.
The updated USN Arctic Roadmap 2014 - 2030 released.
White House released the Implementation Plan for the National Strategy for the Arctic Region to advance U.S. security interests, pursue responsible stewardship for Arctic region, and strengthen international cooperation.
Executive Order 13689: Enhancing Coordination of National Efforts in the Arctic released on Jan. 21, 2015
The symposium talks will cover three general topic areas:
Latest research on observed and forecast changes of the Arctic sea ice environment;
Present and future impact of these changes on Arctic operations;
Relevant national and international Arctic policy issues and potential need for additional policy.
http://www.orbit.nesdis.noaa.gov/star/Ice2015.php