critical. Some users are capable of making their own data products; e.g., synoptic maps or run their own numerical models, but, in both cases, they need observational data and other model inputs for initialization, boundary conditions, verification, etc. If SEACOOS is to support operational emergency response, it will have to transition to operational QA/QCed data fields with error estimates.  For spill response SEACOOS will also need to align with the National ContingencyPlan (NCP), which defines the NOAA Science Support Coordinator (SSC) as the conduit for all scientific information into the Command Post and to the USCG Federal On-the-Scene Coordinator (FOSC).   For disaster management in coastal areas, SEACOOS could leverage the same alignment, this time under the Emergency Support Functions  defined in the National Response Plan (FEMA as lead agency, various agencies suppling the Principle Federal Official (PFO) in a particular locale).(For small incidents, SEACOOS would need to align through the state response agency.)  Note that some agencies, such as the states and NOAA, serve in trustee roles as well as response roles. MS&OO activities are generally the responsibility of governmental agencies, especially federal agencies but with some roles reserved for state agencies in state waters.  In general, areas of operation are clearly defined, e.g. EPA is the lead agency for spill response on land and non-navigable water while USCG is the lead agency for spill response in navigable waters.  Some of these responsibilities are accomplished with governmental employees and assets; others involve the use of contractors and their assets. Formal interagency plans exist from the national level down to the local level for MS&OO contingencies.  For national disasters; such as, the response to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, federal agencies coordinated under the Emergency Support Functions. These plans outline responsibilities, available assets, communication links, etc. These plans are the foundation for periodic training exercises, which are mainly canned exercises (i.e., not real-time) in order to efficiently exercise a particular aspect of response. However, MS&OO could work with the SSC on incorporating SEACOOS assets into drills. For example, the USCG plays a leading role in MS&OO operations and provides vehicles and satellite-tracked surface drifters for search –and-rescue.  Command and control for spill response could be the Responsible Party or the USCG. NOAA is the primary source of environmental information for the USCG. In the case of spills, NOAA/NOS HAZMAT through the SSC provides all scientific information to the USCG such as predictions of spill trajectories and fates and effects using its GNOME and ADIOS models, respectively, biological Resources At Risk, and information (including toxicity and reactivity) of the spilled products (hydrocarbon and / or chemicals) . (HAZMAT is prepared to leverage a number of data streams SEACOOS could provide; e.g., relevant circulation analysis, circulation forecasts, and real-time observations of environmental parameters.)  In particular, regular overflights provide invaluable observations of spill conditions. Furthermore, NOAA/CO-OPS is developing a quick response buoy that can be deployed within 36 to 72 hrs of notification and provide real- time data. Similarly, NOAA/NWS can provide an incident meteorologist on-scene within 24 hrs with a met station. GNOME is equipped with graphics deemed useful for spill events. The commercial sector also provides spill response models; e.g., OILMAP by 2