NOAA manages a vibrant, cutting-edge science program that focuses on research with a high relevance to society. To assist the general public in understanding the state of the science, NOAA develops State of the Science Fact Sheets about key research areas which may be of high interest to the public, and where there may be a diversity of science views within NOAA. The NOAA Science Council oversees the creation and updating of these fact sheets, and the most recent documents are posted here for the public.

In accordance with NOAA Administrative Order 216-113 and the associated Procedural Handbook, State of the Science Fact Sheets that are more than two years old are currently under review for updates.

Information for Fact Sheet Writing Teams: State of the Science Fact Sheet regulations and guidelines can be found in NOAA Administrative Order 216-113 and the associated Procedural Handbook. Please use the approved NOAA SoS Fact Sheet Template (2010) for all State of the Science Fact Sheets.