A Canadian contribution to an integrated Atlantic ocean observing system (IAOOS)

We review opportunities, impediments, regional scope and principles for a Canadian contribution to an Integrated Atlantic Ocean Observing System (IAOOS) in the context of the Galway Alliance. This contribution should build on what exists, plan ahead for data management and data access, be flexible and sustainable, encourage international involvement, be science-led, foster research aggregation, and have close links to remote sensing, data assimilation and prediction programs. Existing programs that can contribute are described, and new initiatives that will broaden relevance of the Observing System are identified, including biological/ ecosystem observations. Specific platforms and technologies for both near-shore and offshore waters are listed, together with areas where new developments are needed. Finally, we outline a strategy for the development of an Atlantic Canada Regional Ocean Observing System (ACROOS).