Cooperative Agreement Between Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and the United States Geological Survey

It is time to prepare the renewal proposal for the CY2008-2009 USGS/WHOI Cooperative Agreement.  Deadline for submitting materials is 5:00 p.m., Friday, January 11, 2008. Refer to Instructions (pdf) for complete details.

For a complete review of the agreement please refer to the pdf version of the FY2007 USGS/WHOI Cooperative Agreement.

Introduction

This Cooperative Agreement between the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) and the Branch of Atlantic Marine Geology of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) provides a mechanism to support scientific and technical interactions between the two organizations. Scientists at WHOI conduct a broad range of basic and applied oceanographic research in the world oceans. The USGS describes marine and coastal systems, attempts to understand the fundamental processes that create, modify and maintain them, and develops predictive models that provide understanding of natural systems, the effects of man's activities on them, and creates a capability to predict future change. The program addresses issues of national importance in the areas of environmental quality and preservation, natural hazards and public safety, and natural resources, providing information and comprehensive understanding of marine and coastal geology for public benefit. The program will provide information and products to guide the preservation and sustainable development of the nation's marine and coastal environment.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed in 1988, provides the foundation for long-term cooperation between WHOI and USGS. The MOU defines broad areas of joint research and support activities, documents the intent of the organizations in facilities agreements, and establishes an Advisory Board with representation from both organizations to oversee and guide cooperative efforts. This Cooperative Agreement is based upon the principles set forth in the MOU.

The scientific and technical staffs of USGS and WHOI have jointly developed the co-operative projects proposed here; they are closely coupled to the research programs of both organizations. The staff recognizes the increased productivity and creativity, which result from scientific interactions, and looks forward to implementation of the studies proposed here.

This Agreement will establish cooperative programs for 5 years. The projects and funding levels will be reviewed each fiscal year by USGS and WHOI. New projects may be added, within the broad areas established here as scientific requirements change and new opportunities develop.