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Final Report - 6th Symposium, (PDF, 871 KB)
Thank you for your interest in 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.
2015 Symposium Information
Symposium Hosts
Additional information:
Dr. Pablo Clemente-Colón
Chief Scientist, National Ice Center
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