The Northwest Association of Networked Ocean Observing Systems (NANOOS) represents an amalgamation of 65 separate products available for decision makers' use. This toolkit was created to unite the vast amount of individual pre-existing observing systems like ocean buoys, satellites, and tide gauges into one cohesive network, ensuring better communication between the systems. With this network, users can efficiently gather observational and model data that promotes the proper management of the oceans and estuaries in the Pacific Northwestern region. By taking into consideration contemporary climate issues such as rising sea levels, coastal flooding, algal blooms, decreased oxygen levels, and more, NANOOS plays its part in the fight against the effects of climate change.

The Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS®) is a national-regional partnership working to provide new tools and forecasts to improve safety, enhance the economy, and protect our environment. Integrated ocean information is available in near real time, as well as retrospectively. Easier and better access to this information is improving our ability to understand and predict coastal events such as storms, wave heights, and sea level change. Such knowledge is needed for everything from retail to development planning.

This site is one of eleven regional associations (RAs), which guide development of and stakeholder input to regional observing activities. The RAs serve the nation's coastal communities, including the Great Lakes, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Islands and territories. All RAs offer data collected in their region through their website data portals. Datasets offered at each portal reflect the regional associations' specific strengths and local partnerships.