The resolution urges the United States Congress and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to address the outages of National Data Buoy Center (NDBC) stations in Alaska, which are critical for maritime safety and environmental monitoring. The NDBC operates 27 automated meteorological and ocean stations in the state, providing real-time data essential for navigation, particularly in areas like the Hinchinbrook Entrance in Prince William Sound. The resolution highlights the importance of these stations for the state's fishing, tourism, and oil transportation industries, emphasizing that outages can lead to safety risks for mariners and potential environmental disasters.
The Alaska State Legislature calls for Congress to include provisions in appropriations legislation that ensure the reliability and functionality of NDBC stations. It also urges NOAA to collaborate with Alaska's congressional delegation to develop regulations that address the unique challenges posed by the state's weather and remote geography. The resolution stresses the need for a robust maritime infrastructure to minimize outages and enhance the safety of navigation, thereby protecting both the economy and the environment of Alaska.