Legal Definitions - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is a part of the U.S. Department of Commerce. Its main job is to keep an eye on the environment so that it can make accurate weather forecasts and protect people, property, and the environment.

NOAA was created in 1970 and has several agencies that work together:

• The National Weather Service (NWS)
• The National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS)
• The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS)
• The National Ocean Service (NOS)
• The Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR)

NOAA also has a fleet of ships and aircraft for research.

For example, the National Weather Service uses data from weather satellites to make weather forecasts. The National Marine Fisheries Service works to protect fish populations and their habitats. The Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research studies the ocean and atmosphere to better understand how they work and how they affect us.

Overall, NOAA is an important organization that helps us understand and protect our environment.