US/Mexico: Sharing GoM data

Scientific leaders from the U.S. and Mexico have taken steps to strengthen collaborations to develop better ocean-observing capabilities and improve Gulf of Mexico-wide data sharing at a meeting in Mexico City of the Consortium of Institutions for Marine Research (CIIMAR) in the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean. Mexico's CIIMAR officially signed a memorandum of understanding joining with the Gulf of Mexico Coastal Ocean Observing System Regional Association to pave the way for scientists in both countries to further share ocean information and begin including data gathered by Mexican scientists. "Ecosystems have no borders,” said Dr. José Piña, CIIMAR president. “That's why we must always work to move beyond the borders of our own organizations and governments for the betterment of the environment and for us all." The MOU comes as the U.S. Bureau of Energy Management is opening oil and gas lease areas in the Gulf and while the Mexican government is implementing energy reforms to allow for oil and gas exploration. (Source: Gulf of Mexico Coastal Ocean Observing System Regional Association 03/24/15)