NOAA Science Seminar Series

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Discrete element modeling of sea ice mechanics, with a polygon-based model formulated in spherical coordinates

Presenter(s): Scott Durski (College of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, Oregon State University)

Sponsor: NOAACoastal Ocean Modeling Seminars: https://coastaloceanmodels.noaa.gov/seminar/

SeminarContact: Alexander.Kurapov@noaa.gov

Remoteaccess: Connect with Google Meet meet.google.com/kti-ktaw-nes,
PhoneNumbers (US)+1414-856-5982 PIN: 248 179#

Abstract: Discrete element modeling (DEM) provides a methodology for simulating the dynamics of sea ice from fracture through post-failure granular behavior. Because the approach is designed explicitly to represent the cohesive or frictional forces between distinct floes, it may offer a better representation than continuum-based approaches for some phenomena. As such, discrete element models (DEMs) provide a complementary approach to sea ice modeling at geophysical scales. However, many uncertainties remain regarding best practices in the application of the method. These range from choosing element shape, element scale, contact physics, and numerical implementation. Here we describe a novel polygon-based discrete element sea ice model, developed with careful attention to the implementation details and the fundamental response of interacting element-pairs. The crack patterns that develop as a result of sea ice fracture depend critically on the elastic and dissipative response of the material. Propagation of cracks can depend as much on the characteristics of post-failure element contacts as intact ones. So, distinct parameters are introduced to provide control of the failure rate and timing of transitions in contact response and to constrain the amount of energy and momentum transfer in the contact failure process. Stresses can be communicated over great distances in sea ice due to its rigidity. This can present difficulty in specifying boundary conditions for simulations of localized processes as remote influences may be large. With this in mind, unlike other models in its class, this model is formulated in spherical coordinates, and borrows from finite element mesh generation and refinement techniques that make it possible to simulate across scales up to the planetary without excessive computational cost.

The sensitivity of the model response is first demonstrated here in a set of idealized experiments involving the interactions of a few elements. The model is then applied to realistic simulations of sea ice response to northerly wind stress in the southern Chukchi Sea and Bering Strait. Parameter space is explored along with sensitivity to element size and arrangement through sets of ensemble simulations to explore the phenomenology of ice arching. Post-failure parameters such as the strength of the sea ice at the transition from bonded to frictional sliding, and the residual sea ice strength for heavily impacted ice are demonstrated to significantly impact model response.

Slides, Recordings, OtherMaterials:

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NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: The IPG Toolkit: Reusable Tools Born from Rapid Development

NOAA Library Seminars

Presenter(s): Jimmy Baker, Web Developer / Project Coordinator (CSS, Inc.). Jessica Steslow, GIS Developer (CSS, Inc.)

Sponsor(s): NOAA Library

Seminar Contact: library.seminars@noaa.gov

Remote Access: https://vimeo.com/event/6118275

Abstract: Across six applications built under the Industry Proving Ground program, the same requirements kept surfacing: accessible map interactions, consistent legends, reusable components. Rather than solving these problems repeatedly, we began packaging solutions as shared libraries, distributed through an internal package registry. What started with one extension grew into a small ecosystem of reusable tools that now let us take a new mapping application from nothing to a working MVP quickly, freeing teams to focus on data logic instead of basic infrastructure. This talk covers how that toolkit came together, and where we're headed as we explore broader distribution across NCEI and NOAA.

Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Central Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Southern Plains Drought Webinar: Flash Drought Update and El Niño Outlook

Presenter(s):

Current Drought Conditions Joel Lisonbee, Cooperative Institute for Research In Environmental Sciences/NOAA/NIDIS

El Niño and Southern Plains Weather Andy Hoell, NOAA/Physical Sciences Laboratory

Sponsor(s): NOAA's National Integrated Drought Information System

Seminar Contact(s):
Joel Lisonbee, joel.lisonbee@noaa.gov

Remote Access: Please register at https://noaaresearch.webex.com/weblink/register/r7f908564b469e2787f9fe10654c7baf9

Location: Webinar

Abstract: Rainfall across the Southern Plains has been inconsistent this summer. Some areas, like the Texas Hill Country, have experienced floods while other areas, like the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles, have been relatively dry and seen long stretches of days in excess of 100ºF. Although drought conditions initially improved across the Southern Plains, extreme heat and dry conditions caused flash drought (rapid onset or intensification) to return quickly. This webinar will provide an overview of current and forecasted drought conditions for Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Additionally, an El Niño pattern is in full swing. Typically, El Niño brings cool, wet winters to Texas, but there are a lot of factors that may complicate that. Andy Hoell, from NOAA’s Physical Sciences Laboratory, will talk about what to expect from a typical El Niño in the Southern Plains, and what factors might make this year different from what’s expected. This webinar will be recorded.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Will be available here: https://www.youtube.com/@NOAADrought

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NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Scaling North America’s Highest Peak: Inside the Denali Climbing Forecast
VAWS Webinar Series

Presenter(s): Evan Kutta, NWS Science and Operations Officer, and Jason Laney, NWS Warning Coordination Meteorologist

Sponsor(s): NOAA/OAR/Climate Program Office, Geographic Information Network of Alaska (GINA), and the Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness (ACCAP)

Seminar Contact(s): Jessica Ramos, jaramos2@alaska.edu, Christi Buffington, cbuffington@alaska.edu

Remote Access:
Registration link: https://uaf-accap.org/event/vaws-denali-climbing-forecast/

Accessibility: N/A

Abstract: Imagine forecasting weather for a place where a single mistake can mean the difference between an unforgettable triumph and an absolute tragedy. Rising 20,310 feet into the subarctic sky, Mount McKinley (locally referred to as Denali) stands as North America's ultimate mountaineering test, drawing roughly 1,000 to 1,200 ambitious climbers to its slopes every single year. Yet, the mountain is unforgiving: only about 52% of those who attempt the summit ever stand at the top, and in particularly brutal seasons—like the tragic summer of 1992 when 11 climbers perished—Denali serves as a stark reminder of the ultimate stakes involved.

This presentation pulls back the curtain on the high-stakes world of the National Weather Service (NWS) Fairbanks Denali Climbing Forecast. Discover the immense scientific and logistical challenges of predicting extreme weather for a massive, remote peak where traditional data is nearly non-existent, forcing meteorologists to rely on a sparse network of automated weather stations, satellite soundings, and real-time ranger dispatches. You will also learn how this lifesaving data is distilled into clear, non-technical updates and transmitted to the mountain via satellite phones, public radio, and hand-written whiteboards at isolated high-altitude camps. Join us to explore how a dedicated team of NWS Fairbanks forecasters acts as a critical lifeline, mapping out precious "weather windows" that allow climbers to conquer the peak safely and return home.

Slides, Recordings, Other materials: Recording will be shared after the webinar with all who register

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Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Location: David Skaggs Research Center, Room GC402/Online

Presenter(s): Dr. Christina Schaedel, Woodwell Climate Research Center

Sponsor(s): Global Monitoring Laboratory

Seminar Contact(s): Vanessa Caicedo and Youmi Oh, vanessa.caicedo@noaa.gov, youmi.oh@noaa.gov

Remote Access:

GML Seminar: Dr. Christina Schaedel
Thursday, September 10 · 1:00 – 2:00pm
Time zone: America/Denver
Google Meet joining info
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/ztk-jsia-jwb
Or dial: (US) +1 337-305-7289 PIN: 304 455 285#
More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/ztk-jsia-jwb?pin=1025143945134

Abstract:

Rapid Arctic warming is thawing permafrost, releasing greenhouse gases to the atmosphere that not only accelerate climate change but also increase global economic risks. Despite the importance of this feedback, global climate models only account for gradual thaw and do not capture abrupt thaw processes or wildfire-soil interactions that rapidly expose and combust frozen carbon. Here, we use an expanded version of the compact Earth system model OSCAR to estimate how gradual thaw, abrupt thaw, and fire-related permafrost emissions affect remaining carbon budgets, climate change, sea level rise, and economic damages under a range of future climate scenarios. We find that accounting for all processes reduces the remaining allowable carbon budget consistent with the Paris Agreement, by about 25% for limiting warming to 1.5°C and 17% for 2.0°C. Permafrost thaw also increases the likelihood of severe end-of-century climate and economic impacts. Some of the largest projected economic damages occur in tropical and subtropical regions that contain little or no permafrost themselves. Our results show that accounting for permafrost and wildfire emissions is critical for realistic climate targets, carbon budgets, and climate risk assessments.

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NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Winter Rain in Interior Alaska: Local Impacts and Practical Solutions

Presenter(s): Eleanor Greenbaum, Alaska Fellows Program and Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness

Sponsor(s): NOAA/OAR/Climate Program Office and the Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness (ACCAP)

Seminar Contact(s): Ed Plumb (ewplumb@alaska.edu) & Genie Bey (genie.bey@noaa.gov)

Remote Access: https://uaf-accap.org/event/winter-rain-impacts/

Abstract: As winter rain becomes more frequent in Alaska’s Interior, communities must understand the risks associated with these events and remain prepared. This ACCAP webinar will explore takeaways from various entities across several sectors who have been impacted by the hazard, ranging from infrastructure maintenance to hazard mitigation planning. We’ll discuss key concerns, highlight the impacts of the December 2021 “Icemageddon” event in the Fairbanks area, and explore options for direct response and long-term planning for winter rain events.

Slides / Recordings / Other materials: A recording can be found after the meeting at the URL listed above.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Building capacity for trait-based coral assessment using MAPP: Multispectral Aquatic Photosynthesis Profiler

Presenter(s): Kenneth Hoadley, University of Alabama

Sponsor(s): NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program

Remote Access: https://meet.google.com/pgn-asvi-kgp

Seminar Contact(s): Caroline Donovan, caroline.donovan@noaa.gov

Accessibility: Closed captioning available through Google Meet platform

Abstract: Researchers have developed a low-cost, non-destructive tool for predicting coral thermal tolerance and assessing health. This technology captures fluorescent signatures from coral colonies, which reflect the photosynthetic health and stress response of symbiotic algae. Uploaded to a web-based analytical pipeline, these signatures are integrated with genetic and stress-response data to provide actionable predictions for restoration practitioners. Trait-based selection is vital for improving global reef restoration outcomes. In collaboration with NOAA, the University of Delaware, and Mote Marine Laboratory, the tool’s accuracy was tested on Acropora cervicornis and Orbicella faveolata in the Florida Keys. Experiments conducted between 2024 and 2026 involved 60 unique genotypes per species. By pairing light-response phenotypes with bleaching data, researchers developed species-specific predictive models. Subsequent testing in 2026 on novel genotypes demonstrated the technology's efficacy for application within land-based nursery systems, converting complex photochemical data into practical decision-making support for coral scientists.

Recordings: Seminar recording will be available afterward, as requested.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email:
Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Current and Future Multisensor Satellite Water Vapor Products
LEO Seminar Series

Presenter(s): John Forsythe, Senior Research Associate, Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA), Colorado State University

Sponsor(s): NOAA/NESDIS Office of LEO Observations

Seminar Contact(s): Amy Leibrand, amy.leibrand@noaa.gov

Remote Access:
Google Meet joining info
https://meet.google.com/fea-vpxr-ddz
Or dial: (US) +1 508-694-3534 PIN: 975 284 457#

Abstract: Atmospheric water vapor is the fuel which drives heavy precipitation and floods. Satellites are the only way to realize a global view of this essential variable. CIRA-developed water vapor products are used by the National Weather Service to track pipelines of moisture and warn of dangerous flooding conditions. Two operational NOAA products, the Blended Total Precipitable Water (BTPW) and the Advected Layer Precipitable Water (ALPW), are driven primarily by passive microwave retrievals from LEO sensors but include other sensors. These products rely on the operational NOAA and MetOp series of spacecraft, which are limited to specific orbital planes and sampling times. The status of the operational and future planned derived products will be provided. Also, in the past few years, smaller low-cost passive microwave sensors have become available which might be able to make these products even better. This includes higher temporal refresh and lower latency. Future impacts of these sensors will be discussed.

Slides: Request from Seminar Contact

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Enterprise Data Management: Metadata Foundations and the InPort Ecosystem

NOAA Library Seminars

Introductory Comments: Lisa Peterson, Office of Science and Technology, Acting Commercial Fishery Statistics Branch Director
Presenter(s): Michael Chang, Contractor Supporting NMFS OCIO, Project Manager/Software Engineer.

Sponsor(s): NOAA Library

Seminar Contact: library.seminars@noaa.gov

Remote Access: https://vimeo.com/event/6137304

Abstract: This presentation explores the critical role of metadata in fostering data stewardship, discoverability, and governance. It further examines how InPort serves as the authoritative metadata repository and inventory platform, enabling organizations to meet legal requirements and preserve institutional memory through robust data management practices.

Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Central Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Saving Humpback Whales Through Science and Response

Series: National Marine Sanctuaries Webinar Series

Presenter(s): Ed Lyman, Large Whale Entanglement Response Coordinator, NOAA’s Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary

Register: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/172402781216553558

Sponsor(s): NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries

Seminar Contact(s): Claire.Fackler@noaa.gov

Abstract: Humpback whales are impacted by many risk factors, like ship strikes, environmental change and entanglement. In some cases, as in entanglements, we can directly respond and free the animals. However, the ultimate goal lies with the science and associated technology, that helps us monitor and better understand the threats and their impacts as to reduce them for other animals in the future. The presentation will illustrate our response and some of the science associated with it through a short film, "Saving Kohola” and an image-rich presentation.

Accessibility: English captions will be provided for the recording.

Recording: The presentation will be recorded; once captioned it will be hosted on the archived webpage: https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/education/teachers/webinar-series-archives.html.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email:
Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Growing Aquaculture in the Great Lakes: Aligning Regional Action with National Trends
Great Lakes Seminar Series

Presenter(s): Dr. Lauren N Stigers, Extension Educator, MSU Extension and Michigan Sea Grant

Sponsor(s): CIGLR and NOAA GLERL

Seminar Contact(s): Margaret Throckmorton, margaret.throckmorton@noaa.gov

Remote Access:

Please register at:
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3516071514098166615
More details at: https://ciglr.seas.umich.edu/event/09162026-lauren-stigers/

Accessibility: Closed captions are available at GoToWebinar during the talk.

Abstract: Aquaculture now supplies most of the world’s seafood (57%), yet the U.S. remains heavily reliant on imports, producing only 11% of its seafood through aquaculture and carrying a $24.2 billion seafood trade deficit (FAO 2024; NMFS 2024). Freshwater aquaculture—primarily catfish, crawfish, and trout—generated $872 million in 2022, and recent analysis shows U.S. aquaculture contributes $4 billion annually in production with several‑fold broader economic impacts (Kumar et al. 2024). Despite this national significance, aquaculture for food remains underdeveloped in the Great Lakes region, where research and management have long centered on recreational fisheries.

This seminar will connect national and regional perspectives on U.S. aquaculture growth. Mrs. Cherry will provide a brief overview of the direction U.S. aquaculture has taken in recent years, describing new policy initiatives and research investments that are working to foster sustainable U.S. aquaculture development at the national level. Dr. Stigers will present on several key initiatives that have been fundamental for supporting aquaculture in the Great Lakes region. Her initiatives include many collaborative projects focusing mainly on Great Lakes’ (1) governance and sustainability of seafood systems, and (2) consumer education and aquaculture literacy.

Recordings: See this link: https://ciglr.seas.umich.edu/event/09162026-lauren-stigers/

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email:
Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: PROMETHEUS: A Process-Oriented Framework to Accelerate UFS Model Development Cycles
Office of Modeling and Development (Formerly EMC)

Presenter(s): Augustin Vintzileos, University of Maryland – ESSIC and George Mason University – COLA,

Sponsor(s): Office of Modeling and Development (Formerly EMC)

Seminar Contact(s): Dr. Jun Du, jun.du@noaa.gov

Remote Access: Google Meet joining info

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/ads-wxor-jdn
Or dial: (US) +1 541-363-7275 PIN: 275 939 159#
More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/ads-wxor-jdn?pin=8235903318161

Accessibility: N/A

Abstract: The calibration of physical parameterizations in Earth system models remains a challenging part of the model development workflow, as improvements in one performance metric (e.g., mean temperature over the CONUS or 500-hPa height forecast skill) often come at the expense of others. This arises because a single set of parameter values is expected to represent multiple process regimes governed by different physical processes. One example is air–sea turbulent exchange, which is governed primarily by interfacial turbulence under moderate winds but becomes increasingly influenced by wave breaking, foam, and sea spray in hurricane conditions. Similar transitions occur in convection, cloud microphysics, and boundary-layer turbulence. These transitions motivate a process-oriented model development strategy in which distinct process regimes are identified and optimized separately.

Here, we propose replacing traditional global parameter tuning with a process-oriented model development framework, PROMETHEUS (PROcess-oriented Model dEvelopment Through dEcision tRee HeUristic System). PROMETHEUS uses interpretable decision trees to partition atmospheric columns into objectively defined Column States. Column States are groups of atmospheric columns exhibiting statistically distinct behavior in a target variable or model error, providing a physically interpretable representation of process regimes (e.g., shallow versus deep convection). This enables targeted diagnosis, investigation, and optimization of physical parameterizations within individual Column States, for example using ensembles of Single Column Models. The framework transforms parameterization development from a single global optimization problem into a set of process-specific optimization problems.

We illustrate the approach using tropical outgoing longwave radiation tendency as a proxy for convective development. The resulting tree identifies coherent combinations of moisture profiles, vertical motion, thermodynamic structure, and surface conditions associated with different rates of convective evolution. In particular, a familiar oceanic skin-temperature threshold near 28°C emerges only after the atmosphere has been preconditioned by large-scale moisture divergence and upper-level ascent, demonstrating how the framework objectively identifies conditional process dependencies. Finally, we discuss how PROMETHEUS can be incorporated into the UFS development workflow to provide objective process-level diagnostics, guide targeted parameterization development, and accelerate physics development within the UFS.

Slides, Recordings, Other materials: TBD

Recordings: N/A

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email:
Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Long-term warming reduces fish biomass, but heatwaves shift it.

Presenter(s): Shahar Chaikin, National Museum of Natural Sciences, Madrid, Spain

Sponsor(s): U.S. Climate-Fisheries Seminar Series; coordinator is
Vincent.Saba@noaa.gov

Location: Webinar

Abstract: TBD

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar weekly email: Send an email to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the One NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information.

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Evaluating the Wave Attenuation Capabilities of Nature-Based Infrastructure

Presenter(s): Jackson Evans, CCME II Graduate NERTO Intern, NOAA Center for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems (CCME II) NOAA Office of Education, Educational Partnership Program (EPP)

Sponsor(s): NOAA EPP Cooperative Science Centers

Seminar Contact(s): Audrey.Trotman@noaa.gov and oed.epp10@noaa.gov

Remote Access: Connect with Google Meet https://meet.google.com/gdz-ueco-jtm

Dial: (US)+1 650-817-8753 PIN: 333563 094#

More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/gdz-ueco-jtm?pin=3822989308429

Accessibility: Google Meet closed captioning available.

Abstract:

The results presented are from the NOAA EPP CSC NERTO graduate internship in-residence at NOAA project conducted under the mentorship of Dr. Brandon Puckett, with the National Ocean Service, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Service in the Beaufort Lab, Charleston, SC. Coastal communities increasingly face shoreline erosion, sea-level rise, and coastal hazards, creating a need for protection strategies that enhance resilience while maintaining ecological function. Nature-based infrastructure, including living shorelines, provides an alternative to hardened shorelines, but wave attenuation can vary among designs and environmental conditions. This study evaluated wave attenuation across multiple living shoreline designs in coastal North Carolina and examined structural and hydrodynamic drivers of performance. Paired pressure sensors were deployed seaward and landward of Natrx™, QuickReef™, Oyster Catcher™, and rock sill structures to measure incident andtransmitted waves. Observations were processed through quality control, water-level calculations, and spectral wave analysis. GIS and statistical models were used to compare designs and identify drivers of attenuation. Wave attenuation differed substantially among designs. Natrx™ at Carrot Island exhibited the greatest average attenuation (67%), followed by Quick Reef™ (55%)and Rock Sill (47%). Oyster Catcher™ averaged 20%, while Natrx™ at Pine Knoll Shores showed little overall attenuation. Performance also varied with water depth and relative freeboard, demonstrating that both design and environmental conditions influence wave transmission. These results are from a NOAA EPPCCME-II NERTO graduate internship conducted with NOAA mentor Dr. Brandon Puckett of the National Ocean Service. The NERTO aligns with CCME-II goals by advancing applied coastal research and training the next generation of scientists to address coastal resilience challenges. This research supports NOAA's mission by providing science to inform shoreline management, restoration, and resilience planning for coastal communities and resource managers.

Bio: Jackson Evans was supported as a NOAA Cooperative Science Center Graduate Scholar with the NOAA Center for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems (CCME II). He recently completed his M.S. in Integrated Environmental Science at Bethune-Cookman University. Previously, he earned a B.S. in Biology with a minor in Marine Sciences from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His research interests center on marine ecology, habitat conservation, and quantitative approaches to coastal management. For his master's research, Jackson investigated long-term changes in blue crab populations and seagrass habitat in Florida's Indian River Lagoon. He integrated fisheries and habitat datasets with spatial, temporal, and statistical analyses to examine how estuarine habitat changes influence blue crab size, abundance, and distribution. This research aligns with NOAA's mission by advancing understanding of coastal ecosystems and supporting conservation and management of marine resources. Jackson also completed a NOAA Experiential Research and Training Opportunity (NERTO) with the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) at the NOAA Beaufort Laboratory in North Carolina. His project evaluated wave attenuation by nature-based coastal infrastructure, including multiple living shoreline designs. He conducted wave-gauge data processing and QA/QC, GIS and drone-derived elevation analyses, data visualization, and statistical modeling to examine how structural design and hydrodynamic conditions influence shoreline protection. This work supports NOAA priorities in coastal resilience, nature-based infrastructure, and science-informed management. Jackson plans to pursue a career at the intersection of marine and fisheries science, coastal resource management, and environmental policy. His long-term goal is to conduct applied research that translates ecological science into actionable information for coastal and marine resource management.

For more information access the webpage for the Cooperative Science Centers, https://www.noaa.gov/office-education/epp-msi/csc/20212022-awards andNERTO, www.noaa.gov/eppnerto/.

Subscribe/Unsubscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov withthe word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Shark Depredation in the Gulf of America Bottom Longline Reef-fish Fisheries

Presenter(s): Kyle King, CCME II Graduate NERTO Intern, NOAA Center for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems (CCME II) NOAA Office of Education, Educational Partnership Program (EPP)

Sponsor(s): NOAA EPP Cooperative Science Centers

Seminar Contact(s): Audrey.Trotman@noaa.gov and oed.epp10@noaa.gov

Remote Access: Connect with Google Meet https://meet.google.com/siz-inmm-zmx

Dial: (US)+1 301-845-5284 PIN: 528798 715#

More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/siz-inmm-zmx?pin=5557835251112

Accessibility: Google Meet closed captioning available.

Abstract: Shark depredation—the partial or whole removal of captured fish from fishing gear by sharks prior to landing—has been anecdotally reported as increasing in Gulf of America reef-fish fisheries, leading to increased fishing effort, damaged gear, and loss of target species. This study utilized National Marine Fisheries Service commercial reef-fish bottom longline observer data from 2006-2025 to quantify shark depredation, evaluate spatial and temporal trends, and assess the influence of environmental and fishery operational variables on depredation probability using predictive modeling techniques. Shark depredation was documented in 12.3% of all sets (n =14,365) and exhibited a positive trend over the last two decades. Depredation was positively associated with increased gear soak time and negatively associated with bottom depth. Seasonally, depredation varied, with fall having the highest proportion of sets with depredation. Spatial analyses indicated that depredation “hotspots” were not fixed geographic locations but were influenced by variation in fishing effort and environmental conditions. While depredation is expected to continue to increase, these insights are crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies. This project establishes a baseline shark depredation rate in Gulf of America commercial reef-fish bottom-longline fisheries and provides context for the mechanisms underlying shark depredation events. The results of this research are from the NOAA EPP CSC NERTO graduate internship project that was conducted with NOAA mentor Dr. John Carlson of the Southeast Fisheries Science Center. The NERTO aligns with the NOAA CCME-II award's goals of supporting fisheries sustainability, coastal resilience, and place-based conservation.

Bio: Kyle King is supported as a NOAA Cooperative Science Center Graduate Scholar with the NOAA Center for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems (CCME II). He is an M.S. Graduate Research Assistant studying Marine Biology in the Movement Ecology Lab at Texas A&M University- Corpus Christi. His research focuses on shark depredation in the Gulf of America recreational fisheries and the evaluation of non-lethal shark deterrent technologies through applied fisheries techniques. As a NOAA CCME-II award beneficiary Kyle King completed a NERTO internship with NOAA Fisheries and the Southeast Fisheries Science Center. He has also investigated long-term patterns of shark depredation in commercial reef-fish fisheries. His career interests include fisheries ecology, shark conservation, and the development of science-based management strategies that support sustainable fisheries.

For more information access the webpage for the Cooperative Science Centers, https://www.noaa.gov/office-education/epp-msi/csc/20212022-awards andNERTO, www.noaa.gov/eppnerto/.

Subscribe/Unsubscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov withthe word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: September NWS Alaska Climate Outlook Briefing

Presenter(s): Rick Thoman, Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness

Sponsor(s): NOAA/OAR/Climate Program Office and the Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness (ACCAP)

Seminar Contact(s): Ed Plumb (ewplumb@alaska.edu) & Genie Bey (genie.bey@noaa.gov)

Remote Access: https://uaf-accap.org/event/sep2026-climate-outlook/

Abstract: During this month’s Climate Outlook Briefing, Rick will review recent and current climate conditions around Alaska, discuss forecasting tools, and finish up with NOAA’s Extended Prediction Division forecast for October and look at the upcoming winter. Tune in online for a look at recent Alaska weather highlights and what may be ahead for Alaska’s seasonal climate.

Slides / Recordings / Other materials: A recording may be found after the meeting at the URL listed above.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Supporting Disaster Preparedness for Coastal Communities: Lessons from the Carolinas

NOAA Library Seminars

Introductory Comments: Allyssa Zebrowski, NOAA Disaster Preparedness Program, Southeast & Caribbean Regional Preparedness Coordinator.

Presenter(s): Frank Lopez, North Carolina Sea Grant, Extension Director. Merrie Koester, University of South Carolina Center for Science Education, Science Literacy, Communication, and Flood Hazard Risk Specialist.

Sponsor(s): NOAA Library and NOAA Disaster Preparedness Program

Seminar Contact(s): library.seminars@noaa.gov

Remote Access: https://vimeo.com/event/6148415

Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Central Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.

Abstract: Beginning in 2021, NOAA’s Office of Response and Restoration, Disaster Preparedness Program teamed up with the National Sea Grant Office to support Sea Grant program projects enabling communities to reduce disaster impacts and reach post-disaster recovery more quickly. Two more of the projects selected for this partnership program have now concluded: North Carolina Sea Grant’s “Capacity Building for Health Equity in Communications During Disasters for Rural and Underserved Coastal Latino Communities,” and South Carolina Sea Grant’s “Kids Teaching Flood Resilience: Step Up! Get Ready! Respond!.” Project leads for these efforts will discuss their results and what others can learn from their experiences.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: NEScapes: Northeast Seascapes Water Mass Model Development and Analysis.

Presenter(s): Haley Synan & Kim Hyde, NOAA NEFSC

Sponsor(s): U.S. Climate-Fisheries Seminar Series; coordinator is
Vincent.Saba@noaa.gov

Location: Webinar

Abstract: TBD

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar weekly email: Send an email to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the One NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information.

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Drought, El Niño, and California - NOAA Drought Seminar Series

Presenter(s): Michael Anderson, California State Climatologist; Principal Engineer Specialist, Water Resources

Sponsor(s): NOAA Research's Physical Science Laboratory and National Integrated Drought Information System, and the National Weather Service's Weather Prediction Center

Seminar Contact(s): Andrew.Hoell@noaa.gov

Remote Access:
Register before the seminar at:
https://noaaresearch.webex.com/weblink/register/rca6066f1b86ead3a1fb85d1e6160d129

Accessibility: Live closed captioning

Abstract: When El Niño is mentioned with respect to California, images of extreme storms from the winters of 1983 and 1998 often come to mind. Although El Niño does shift the distribution of precipitation outcomes towards wet, dry outcomes do occur. Of the seven events where the Relative Niño Index exceeded 2.0 during winter in California, three ended up with below average precipitation and below average snowpack. In this presentation, comparisons are made between the 7 very strong El Niño events exploring factors that separate wet and dry outcomes in California’s water year.

Slides, Recordings, Other materials: Available after the talk at https://psl.noaa.gov/drought/seminarseries.html

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email:

Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: One North, Two Fire Seasons: A Review of the 2026 Wildfire Season in Alaska, Yukon, and Northwest Territories

Presenter(s): Rick Thoman (Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness), Heidi Strader and Jonathan Chriest (Alaska Interagency Coordination Center Predictive Services), and Mike Smith (Canadian Forest Service)

Sponsor(s): NOAA/OAR/Climate Program Office and the Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness (ACCAP)

Seminar Contact(s): Ed Plumb (ewplumb@alaska.edu) & Genie Bey (genie.bey@noaa.gov)

Remote Access: https://uaf-accap.org/event/2026-fire-season-review/

Abstract: The 2026 wildfire season told two very different stories across Northern North America. Alaska and the Yukon experienced another relatively quiet fire season, while the Northwest Territories faced a fourth consecutive summer of widespread, high-impact fires and smoke. What weather and climate patterns drove these dramatically different outcomes, and what lessons can they offer for understanding wildfire across the North?

Join the Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness (ACCAP) and the Alaska Fire Science Consortium (AFSC) for a regional review of the 2026 wildfire season. Rick Thoman of ACCAP will provide the broader weather and climate context that influenced fire activity across the region, while meteorologists from the Alaska Interagency Coordination Center (AICC) Predictive Services and Canadian wildfire experts will review how the season unfolded in Alaska, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories. Together, they will discuss notable fires, operational challenges, lessons learned, and what this year's contrasting fire seasons may reveal about wildfire across Northern North America.

Bio(s): Rick Thoman is a the Climate Specialist with the Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness (ACCAP). Rick and has many years of experience producing reliable Alaska climate information and graphics describing Alaska’s changing environment. His work spans the bridge between climate modeling, Alaska communities, and the media.

Heidi Strader is a meteorologist with the Alaska Interagency Coordination Center (AICC) Predictive Services in Fairbanks, Alaska. She provides daily weather briefings and fire weather forecasts to wildfire managers across Alaska, helping support operational planning, resource allocation, and strategic decision-making throughout the fire season. She has extensive experience interpreting weather and climate conditions to support wildfire preparedness and operations across Alaska.

Jonathan Chriest is a meteorologist and Incident Meteorologist (IMET) with the Alaska Interagency Coordination Center (AICC) Predictive Services in Fairbanks, Alaska. He provides daily weather briefings and fire weather forecasts to wildfire managers across Alaska and serves as an IMET, delivering on-site weather support for wildfire incidents when needed. His work helps support operational planning, resource allocation, and strategic decision-making throughout the fire season. Before joining AICC, Jonathan worked as a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Fairbanks beginning in 2018. He has extensive experience interpreting weather and climate conditions to support wildfire preparedness and operations across Alaska.

Mike Smith began his fire career on an initial attack crew in the early 2000s. After a break to complete degrees in meteorology and avalanche mechanics, he joined Yukon wildland fire management as a fire weather meteorologist from 2010-25. Since 2025 he has worked as a fire weather specialist for the Canadian Forest Service, joining the program built by Richard Carr and supporting the Canadian Wildland Fire Information System.

Slides / Recordings / Other materials: A recording can be found after the meeting at the URL listed above.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Streamflow Forecasting using Physical-Aware AI/DL Models and Improving the Precipitation Forecasts at the Subseasonal-to-Seasonal Scale in Support of Adaptive Reservoir Operation
Great Lakes Seminar Series

Presenter(s): Dr. Tiantian Yang, Associate Professor, School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan

Sponsor(s): CIGLR and NOAA GLERL

Seminar Contact(s): Margaret Throckmorton, margaret.throckmorton@noaa.gov

Remote Access:

Please register at:
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1571851282521547862
More details at: https://ciglr.seas.umich.edu/event/10082026-tiantian-yang/

Accessibility: Closed captions are available at GoToWebinar during the talk.

Abstract: Reservoirs and lakes are fundamental and multi-functional water infrastructures that collect, store, and deliver surface freshwater for a multitude of uses, including flood and fire control, recreation, wildlife habitat, residential, industrial, agricultural practices, irrigation, hydro-electric power generation, drought mitigation, and more. In recent years, more frequent and severe abrupt weather extremes, natural hazards, aging infrastructure, and increased water demands due to population growth have placed another significant barrier preventing the effective, sustainable, and adaptive operation of the existing reservoir and lake systems. Therefore, new technologies and innovations are critically needed to improve the existing reservoir and lake operation and management of built water systems in our nation. In support of adaptive reservoir operation Dr. Tiantian Yang will present his current research on enhancing streamflow prediction at subseasonal-to-seasonal timescales by improving precipitation forecasts and hydrologic simulations through the integration of physical hydrologic models and physically-aware artificial intelligence and deep learning (AI/DL) tools. These hybrid models aim to retain the interpretability and physical consistency of traditional models while leveraging the pattern recognition and scalability of AI/DL.

Recordings: See this link: https://ciglr.seas.umich.edu/event/10082026-tiantian-yang/

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email:
Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: October Alaska Climate Outlook Briefing

Presenter(s): Rick Thoman, Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness

Sponsor(s): NOAA/OAR/Climate Program Office and the Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness (ACCAP)

Seminar Contact(s): Ed Plumb (ewplumb@alaska.edu) & Genie Bey (genie.bey@noaa.gov)

Remote Access: https://uaf-accap.org/event/oct2026-climate-outlook/

Abstract: During this month’s Climate Outlook Briefing, Rick will review recent and current climate conditions around Alaska, discuss forecasting tools, and finish up with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center forecast for November and look at the upcoming winter. Tune in online for a look at recent Alaska weather highlights and what may be ahead for Alaska’s seasonal climate.

Slides / Recordings / Other materials: A recording may be found after the meeting at the URL listed above.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: GeoBlue Planet Fisheries Workshop: Ocean Data to Support Global Sustainable Fisheries Management

Presenter(s): Hassan Moustahfid, NOAA

Sponsor(s): NOAA Ocean Color Coordinating Group (NOCCG)

Remote Access: https://meet.google.com/hnd-zams-bgo

Seminar Contact(s): Cara.Wilson@NOAA.gov

Abstract: Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs) and Regional Fishery Bodies (RFBs) are increasingly challenged to manage fisheries under growing climate variability, shifting species distributions, and ecosystem change. To address these challenges, the GEO Blue Planet Fisheries Workshop, held in London, UK (21–22 April 2026), convened representatives from RFMOs, RFBs, ocean observing programs, and scientific institutions to explore how ocean data and Earth Observation products can better support fisheries decision-making.

The workshop focused on identifying the opportunities, barriers, and capacity needs associated with integrating ocean observations, ecosystem indicators, and predictive models into fisheries management processes. Discussions highlighted common challenges across regions, including limited technical infrastructure, insufficient access to tailored ocean information, lack of long-term environmental datasets, and weak institutional connections between science providers and fisheries managers. Participants emphasized that successful adoption of ocean data requires not only technological solutions but also sustained capacity building, ocean literacy, and stronger science-policy partnerships.

A key outcome was the development of recommendations for a regionally tailored “Minimum Viable Ocean Data or MVOD” framework to support fisheries management and ecosystem-based approaches. Participants also identified priority actions to improve information flow from ocean observing systems to management bodies and proposed pilot projects in the Indian Ocean/Bay of Bengal and West Africa/South Atlantic regions. The workshop concluded that strengthening institutional bridges between ocean science and fisheries governance is essential for enabling RFMOs and RFBs to incorporate environmental information into sustainable and climate-resilient fisheries management.

Slides / Recordings / Other Materials: Slides can be found at this link about 24 hours after the live webinar: https://www.star.nesdis.noaa.gov/star/PastSeminars_NOCCG.php

Subscribe to the One NOAA Science Seminar weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. https://www.star.nesdis.noaa.gov/star/OneNOAASeminars.php. For more information visit: https://www.star.nesdis.noaa.gov/star/NOAAScienceSeminars.php

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Spatiotemporal variability of Mid-Atlantic Bight oceanography and ecology: Perspectives from an autonomous ‘ecoglider’ program.

Presenter(s): Grace Saba, Rutgers University

Sponsor(s): U.S. Climate-Fisheries Seminar Series; coordinator is
Vincent.Saba@noaa.gov

Location: Webinar

Abstract: TBD

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar weekly email: Send an email to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the One NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information.