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The Interagency Working Group on Ocean Exploration and Characterization (IWG-OEC), created in September 2020, is charged with helping to implement parts of the National Strategy for Mapping, Exploring, and Characterizing the United States Exclusive Economic Zone. The NOMEC Council provides direction and support to the IWG-OEC and will consult and rely on the technical expertise and operational capacities of IWG-OEC member agencies in implementing its objectives. The IWG-OEC will recommend and facilitate exploration and characterization efforts that provide needed information and insights about deep-water (>40 m) environments, including the seafloor, sub-bottom, and water column, from exploratory initial assessments to comprehensive characterization in direct support of specific research, resource management/stewardship, policymaking, or other mission objectives.
To identify priorities for ocean exploration and characterization (NOMEC Strategy, Goal 3.1), the IWG-OEC organized subject matter experts from Federal agencies across five thematic areas: benthic ecology, cultural heritage, marine resources, seafloor hazards, and the water column. The identified thematic and geographic priorities are summarized in Strategic Priorities for Ocean Exploration and Characterization of the United States Exclusive Economic Zone.