Integrated ocean observing systems: Applying advances in marine environmental research, monitoring and technologies to meet global, national, and local needs

It is my pleasure and honor to be a part of the opening plenary for this symposium. I am impressed by the number and diversity of topics and papers that will be discussed over these three days. Before you delve into discussions of the fascinating details and results of your individual and cooperative research efforts, I would like to provide some broader introductory comments on the opportunities provided by recent advances in marine environmental research, monitoring and technology.