The mission of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) RESTORE Science Program is to carry out research, observation, and monitoring to support, to the maximum extent practicable, the long-term sustainability of the ecosystem, fish stocks, fish habitat, and the recreational, commercial, and charter-fishing industry in the Gulf of Mexico.

NOAA was authorized to establish and administer the Science Program, in consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, by the Resources and Ecosystems Sustainability, Tourist Opportunities, and Revived Economies (RESTORE) of the Gulf States Act of 2012 (Public Law 112-141, Section 1604). Identified in the RESTORE Act as the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Science, Observation, Monitoring, and Technology Program, the Science Program is commonly known as the NOAA RESTORE Science Program.

The Science Program’s goal, outcomes, and long-term priorities are captured in the Program’s Science Plan.

To learn more about the Science Program’s first six years (2013-2018), review the Science Program’s first Program Report.

For additional information on the Science Program see our program factsheet and frequently asked questions (FAQs).