University of Maine Ocean Observing System (UMOOS)

Now known as UMOOS, the University of Maine Ocean Observing System is part of the Northeastern Regional Association of Coastal Ocean Observing Systems (NERACOOS) providing observations of circulation and ocean conditions in the Gulf of Maine for those who make their livings on the water. This information informs weather forecasters and modelers, and provides data that is integral to ongoing research — from studies of fish populations, ocean climate and ocean acidification to harmful algal blooms.

The Physical Oceanography Group (Dr. Neal Pettigrew) is responsible for operating the University of Maine Ocean Observing System (UMOOS) moored buoys in the Gulf of Maine. This program is funded by IOOS through the NERACOOS office.

Pettigrew receives 2016 Presidential Research and Creative Achievement Award

College of Natural Sciences, Forestry, and Agriculture faculty members in marine sciences, Neal R. Pettigrew, professor of oceanography, received the 2016 Presidential Research and Creative Achievement Award. Pettigrew is internationally recognized for his research group’s innovative surface data buoy designs that became the nation’s first coastal ocean observing system. His research over the past quarter-century has been funded by more than $40 million in extramural grants. 

Among many other projects, Pettigrew is chief scientist for the University of Maine Ocean Observing System (UMOOS) providing observations of circulation and ocean conditions in the Gulf of Maine. Read the full news story.