The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Great Lake Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) was created in 1974 to “conduct research directed toward an understanding of the environmental processes in the Great Lakes and their watersheds.” As one of sixteen laboratories and programs within NOAA’s research division—Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR)—our freshwater focus on Great Lakes, large lakes of the world, and coastal ecosystems makes us unique among NOAA OAR laboratories and programs. Our research contributes to the products and services that protect lives and livelihoods, the economy, and the environment of the Great Lakes region.
The Great Lakes basin is a vital freshwater resource that spans across U.S. and Canadian borders and enriches the lives of more than 34 million people who live, work, and recreate in the region. Our awareness and understanding of the fragile, complex, and interconnected nature of the Great Lakes is now more important than ever. As we look ahead, we must recognize the uncertainty that the dynamic forces of human-induced stressors and a changing climate bring to our work. NOAA’s commitment to protecting and securing Great Lakes water and resources for future generations will not waiver. Our science, service, and stewardship will continue to contribute to an awareness and understanding that spans across the region.
The science program at GLERL is foundational to and interwoven across the core NOAA mission and is guided by OAR’s goals—as described in the OAR Strategy 2020-2026—to explore the marine environment; detect changes in the ocean, Great Lakes, and atmosphere; make better forecasts; and drive innovation. Our approach to scientific research—integrated around physical, chemical, and biological interactions—serves as a framework to address the complex environmental challenges posed by a large-lake system in a state of flux, as well as a model for other freshwater and coastal ecosystems. Looking forward, we are strengthening our programs in ‘omics, uncrewed systems, Great Lakes acidification, and stakeholder engagement. In the years ahead, we will continue to enhance our science program through partnerships and collaborations within the private sector, and greater integration into academia.
This strategic plan outlines GLERL’s strategies, goals, and objectives for the next five years. We are poised to embrace future needs by building lasting partnerships, providing innovations in observing technology, leading cutting-edge experimental research, developing advanced ecosystem models, communicating science-based products and services, and contributing sound science to the Great Lakes management community.
Deborah H. Lee
Director, NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory
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