Category: AM-NC

MIL-OSI USA: CHAT WITH CHUCK: New Text Messages Show, Once Again, That Gotion is Wrong for Michigan

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

Headline: CHAT WITH CHUCK: New Text Messages Show, Once Again, That Gotion is Wrong for Michigan

This week, text messages released in court documents revealed that Gotion Senior Vice President of North American Operations personally sought private information on one of the company’s leading critics and disparaged the critic using misogynistic language. In other text messages, the same executive attacked his company’s CEO as an “idiot.”

“This is a David vs. Goliath fight and these new documents show how giant Gotion will stop at nothing to personally attack brave people in the community who raise serious concerns about the company’s ties to the Chinese Communist Party and its plans for the Big Rapids area. Is this really the kind of company the MEDC wants to give millions of dollars to? When will state leaders cut off funding for this company and its attacks on Michigan residents?” said Congressman John Moolenaar.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Brownley Statement on House Passage of Continuing Resolution to Avert Government Shutdown

Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) issued the following statement following House passage of H.R. 9747, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025. This funding bill, commonly referred to as a Continuing Resolution (CR), puts Congress on a path to avert a government shutdown by authorizing continued discretionary funding over the course of the next three months.

“Extreme MAGA Republicans and their leader, former President Trump, have repeatedly threatened to shut down the government and to hold our economy and the American people hostage over their insistence on implementing the radical policies laid out in Trump’s Project 2025,” said Congresswoman Brownley.

“We all know a government shutdown would not only have a devastating economic impact, but it would hinder our military readiness, weaken our national security, deprive veterans of benefits they have earned, prohibit seniors from enrolling in Social Security, and jeopardize the critical services and programs that American families rely on.

“House Democrats rejected the harmful and dangerous efforts by the extreme wing of the Republican Party to add poison pill riders on budget bills. The continuing resolution that emerged through bicameral, bipartisan negotiations, is not perfect, but it represents a reasonable compromise.

“This funding bill reflects House Democrats’ commitment to putting people over politics by curbing MAGA extremism and moving the nation forward, and that is why I voted for its passage. I trust that the Senate and the President will act swiftly so that we can keep the federal government open and continue to serve the American people.”

###

Issues: 118th Congress

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Blunt Rochester Statement on Passage of House Continuing Resolution

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester (DE-AL)

Rep. Blunt Rochester Statement on Passage of House Continuing Resolution

WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester released the following statement after the House passed a continuing resolution to keep the government open through December 20:

“Today, the House passed a bipartisan, short-term continuing resolution that will keep our government and agencies operating, and our military prepared. Because of this legislation, we will avoid a government shutdown and provide relief to the American people who are concerned about their access to government resources. The House and Senate must now work together in good faith on full-year funding legislation, consistent with the bipartisan terms set in the Fiscal Responsibility Act. Bipartisanship is not only the right path forward – it is what the American people deserve.”

###

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Kean’s Bill to Expedite Flight Training for Veterans
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07)

(September 25, 2024) WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 7323 – Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserves Tuition Fairness Act of 2024.

Included in this package is the Veterans Flight Training Responsibility Act of 2024, a bipartisan bill led by Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) that would expedite the flight training process for veterans by removing the one-year requirement for accessing their GI Bill benefits. Under the current GI Bill, students can access a maximum of $26,000 per academic year for their flight training. Once these funds are exhausted, they must wait until the following academic year to continue their training.

Watch Congressman Kean speak on the House floor in support of the bill HERE.

This bill was introduced by Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) and is co-led by Congressman Morgan McGarvey (KY-03).

“Veterans should be able to pursue their aviation careers – or any career – without excessive financial burdens and unnecessary delays,” said Congressman Kean. “The current GI bill system needs to be improved and I’m thankful for my House colleagues for passing today’s revised legislation, which included my bill, the Veterans Flight Training Responsibility Act, so veteran students can expedite the flight training process.”

“Every veteran should be able to use their education benefits however they see fit—and we should be making it easier for them to do so,” said Congressman McGarvey. “Our bill would give veterans the flexibility to use their benefits for flight school without breaking the bank, and I’m thrilled to see it pass through the House of Representatives.”

More specifically, this bill would:
- Cap the flight training fees and tuition to approximately $115,000 for public flight training institutions.
- Allow student veterans to use their GI Bill throughout the whole year, instead of taking time off or paying out of pocket.
Read more about the bill HERE.

###

MIL OSI USA News –
January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Shooting at Burton

Source: South Australia Police

Police are investigating after a shooting at Burton this morning.

About 3.50am on Thursday 26 September, police were called to Bolivar Road after reports a man had been shot.

The victim, a 34- year-old man from Burton, sustained a wound to his leg and was taken to hospital for treatment. His injuries are not considered life threatening.

Police searched the area and have not located the suspect.

Later this morning at 4am police and MFS were called to reports of a vehicle fire on Burton Road, police are investigating if the fire is linked to the earlier shooting.

The incident is not believed to be random.

Northern District are investigating the incident and ask anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at http://www.crimestopperssa.com.au or on 1800 333 000. You can remain anonymous.

MIL OSI News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Lawler Introduces Bipartisan Legislation Prohibiting Discrimination Against Living Kidney Donors by Life Insurance

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

Today, Representative Mike Lawler (R-NY-17) introduced the Kidney Donation Anti-Discrimination Act, which will prevent life insurance companies from being able to discriminate in the offering, issuance, cancellation, price or conditions of a life insurance policy, or in the amount of coverage provided under a life insurance policy, based solely on the status of an individual as a living kidney donor. The legislation is co-sponsored by Representatives Don Davis (D-NC-01) and Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ-02). It is also endorsed by the National Kidney Registry (NKR).

“Someone who donates a kidney is giving someone the gift of life,” said Congressman Lawler. “No good deed should go punished, especially not one that saves a life. Studies show that donating a kidney does not impact life expectancy. It shouldn’t have an impact on someone’s life insurance, either, and my new bill will ensure that it doesn’t. I’m proud to introduce the Kidney Donation Anti-Discrimination Act and I look forward to working with my colleagues in both parties to get this important bill passed and signed into law.”

“Kidney donors are already doing one of the most selfless things an individual can do, and punishing them for their actions makes no sense,” said Congressman Van Drew. “It is a no-brainer that we protect these donors and ensure they face no unnecessary hardship, especially when it comes to life insurance, where they should be supported, not penalized, for their generosity.”

“We must never punish living organ donors who are making a selfless sacrifice for others,” said Congressman Don Davis. “Eastern North Carolinians are suffering from significant health disparities, and the last thing we should do is discourage good Samaritans.”

“With approximately 90,000 people on the kidney transplant waitlist, every barrier to donation costs lives,” said Garet Hil, National Kidney Registry (NKR) CEO and Founder. “The NKR is grateful for the leadership of our congressional champions on the Kidney Donation Anti-Discrimination Act and is excited to endorse this critical bill to ensure donors are not penalized for their selflessness and courage.”

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of the 118th Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Roy Rodriguez Named Chairman of South Texas Water Working Group by Congresswoman De La Cruz

Source: United States House of Representatives – Monica De La Cruz (TX-15)

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) this week held her second official meeting of the South Texas Water Working Group, in which she announced the appointment of Roy Rodriguez as its chairman. Rodriguez brings decades of experience in public administration and water management across Texas.

“I am honored to name Roy Rodriguez as chairman of our South Texas Water Working Group,” said Rep. De La Cruz. “His legacy across Texas speaks for itself, coupled with his deep knowledge of water infrastructure. This makes him the ideal leader to combine efforts with to find long-term solutions to South Texas’ water needs and reduce our dependence on Mexico.”

“It is an honor and privilege to be Chairman of a group tasked with one of the most important issues in South Texas – availability and sustainability of water. I remain committed to helping our region wherever I can. Congresswoman De La Cruz has brought a new focus to a decades long concern that can easily become a crisis. Thank you, Congresswoman.”

Rodriguez will lead a coalition of local stakeholders, officials, and experts working to ensure sustainable water resources for the region’s growing population and agricultural sector across the 15^th Congressional District of Texas.

Roy Rodriguez’s career includes stints as city engineer, assistant city manager and city manager in Harlingen, city engineer in Weslaco, county engineer in Jefferson County, general manager of the McAllen Public Utility Board, and area engineer in Oklahoma. Chairmanship of the South Texas Water Working Group is a volunteer position.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Chavez-DeRemer Helps Secure Protections for SNAP Theft Victims in Bipartisan Stopgap Funding Bill

Source: United States House of Representatives – Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05) voted in favor of H.R. 9747, a stopgap funding bill that will prevent a government shutdown on September 30 and extend critical programs, including protections for victims of SNAP theft. Chavez-DeRemer joined a bipartisan group of her colleagues last month, urging congressional leadership to extend these reimbursement protections.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the bill on a bipartisan vote, and it now heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

“I’ve consistently voted in a bipartisan manner to fund the government and prevent shutdowns because it’s the right thing to do for Oregonians. This bill will give the White House and congressional leaders from both parties more time to negotiate and fully fund the government for fiscal year 2025. In this divided Congress, it’s critical to find common ground so we can get back to addressing key issues for our constituents like passing the Agriculture Committee’s bipartisan Farm Bill, lowering utility bills, making housing more affordable, and improving public safety,” Chavez-DeRemer said.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Leger Fernández Statement on the Passage of the Continuing Resolution

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM)

The Legislation Extends the Filing Deadline for Victims of the Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fires

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Leger Fernández released the following statement after voting for H.R. 9747, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2025, which passed the House tonight by a widely bipartisan vote of 341-82.

“For weeks, extreme Republicans and Trump threatened a government shutdown unless a Continuing Resolution (CR) necessary to keep the government open included a radical Project 2025 proposal that would have made it harder to register and vote,” said Congresswoman Leger Fernández.

“While this CR is far from perfect, we know that if we fail to act, millions of Americans will suffer the consequences. That is why I voted alongside my Democratic colleagues to put People Over Politics today and pass a clean CR,” she continued.

“For months, we advocated for this bill to include help for those suffering from the aftermath of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. Thanks to our work, this bill extends the filing deadline for a notice of loss until December 20, 2024, for victims of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and its cascading events. The CR also extends the deadline by which flood insurance premiums must be paid from May 31, 2024, to December 20, 2024. This will ensure claimants have additional time to purchase flood insurance—a vital protection as cascading events continue to threaten communities in New Mexico,” she continued.

“While this is a big win, there is still more work to do. Before this extension expires, we hope to pass the entire Hermit’s Peak Claims Extension Act to extend the deadline for two years, so all potential claimants have time to file,” she continued.

We will continue fighting for those affected by the fires and all New Mexicans as we negotiate a final funding bill,” she concluded.

A bill summary can be found here.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: President Biden Delivers Remarks on Ukraine’s Recovery and Reconstruction

Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

President Biden hosts an event with world leaders launching a Joint Declaration of Support for Ukrainian Recovery and Reconstruction.

New York, NY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhbAu9puz4s

MIL OSI Video –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Four of Rep. Lauren Boebert’s Amendments to the ‘Fix Our Forests Act’ Included in Final House Passage
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-03) released the following statement after four of her active management amendments passed and were included in H.R. 8790, the “Fix Our Forests Act,” which passed the House of Representatives on a bipartisan vote of 268-151.

“America needs to do more to actively manage our forests and prevent catastrophic wildfires that are devastating our communities. Federal agencies have to stop spending billions of dollars on the backend putting out fires and shift to a comprehensive, proactive approach. The Fix Our Forests Act and my four amendments do exactly that and are the type of solutions needed in the West and Colorado. I thank House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman for his support on all four of my amendments, and I urge the Senate to take up his critical legislation,” said Congresswoman Boebert.

Background, courtesy of the House Natural Resources Committee:

The Fix Our Forests Act is a historic and comprehensive package that will encourage active forest management and support community resiliency to wildfires by expediting environmental analyses, reducing frivolous lawsuits and increasing the pace and scale of forest restoration projects.

The bill will:
- Simplify and expedite environmental reviews for forest management projects
- Promote federal, state, tribal and local collaboration
- Deter frivolous litigation that delays essential projects
- Create a framework for prioritizing treatments in the forests at highest risk of wildfire
- Encourage adoption of state-of-the-art science and data for federal land managers
- Encourage active management to improve the safety of powerlines and other infrastructure
- Strengthen tools like Good Neighbor Authority and Stewardship Contracting
Information on Rep. Boebert’s included amendments:

Boebert Amendment #12: Clarifies existing authorities may be utilized to prevent wildfires in Fire Regimes IV and V

Amendment 12 makes an important clarification that expands the acres of at-risk forests that would be eligible for streamlined management authorities. Under current law, regimes 4 and 5 are subject to extensive “National Environmental Policy Act” (NEPA) requirements for active management. A fire regime map by county can be found HERE.

This amendment is critical to fire mitigation efforts across the states of Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, Arizona, California, Utah, Nevada, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, New York, Maine, West Virginia, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Missouri, Louisiana, Mississippi, Indiana, Ohio, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Virginia, North Carolina, Iowa, Florida, and Texas

Boebert Amendment #13: Ensures grazing is one of the hazardous fuel reduction activities authorized by the bill

Fuels treatments are effective, and federal agencies have made clear that “over 90 percent of the fuel treatments are effective in changing fire behavior and/or helping with control of the wildfire.”

Grazing animals play an important part in maintaining healthy ecosystems by controlling the ecological balance of vegetative species, reducing fire fuels that result from the accumulation of non-native plant biomass, and improving soil health by trampling plant residue and their own waste into the soil profile. Cattle, sheep, and goats can play a regenerative wildfire mitigation role that also provides for our food and fiber needs.

Boebert Amendment #14: Requires regional foresters to submit a plan through the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program for the treatment and removal of trees killed by or infested with bark beetles in Western states

The Bark Beetle epidemic has caused significant damage to roughly 100,000 square miles of forest in the western United States alone. Along the West Coast and through the Rocky Mountains, bark beetles have affected tens of millions of acres of forest. While bark beetles are native to U.S. forests and play important ecological roles, they can cause extensive tree mortality and negative economic and social impacts.

Spruce beetles have killed millions of trees on more than 1.8 million acres in Colorado since 2000 and provided increased fuels for wildfires. In Colorado, 2021 was one of the worst wildfire seasons our state has ever endured with the three largest fires in state history. Bark beetle epidemics and catastrophic wildfires are a significant threat. This can be minimized by thinning overgrown forests and removing hazardous fuels produced by beetle overpopulation.

Boebert Amendment #15: Requires regional foresters to submit a plan for the sale of Christmas trees and firewood on federal lands

Under current law, American families can purchase a permit from the forest service to cut Christmas trees from their favorite national forest as well as harvest any firewood, transplants, post and poles, and other forest products to improve forest health. We have seen successful Christmas tree and firewood harvesting operations in the state of Colorado, and this program has served as a locally based solution to help thin our overgrown forests.

According to the Forest Service, “The permit system helps to thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees. Local forest health experts identify areas that benefit from thinning trees and tend to be the perfect size for Christmas trees. Removing these trees in designated areas helps other trees grow larger and can open areas that provide food for wildlife.”

For more information on the Fix Our Forests Act, click HERE.

###

For updates, subscribe to Congresswoman Boebert’s newsletter here.

MIL OSI USA News –
January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press release: PM tells US investors “Britain is open for business” as he secured major £10 billion deal to drive growth and create jobs
Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

A major £10 billion investment which will create thousands of jobs in the North East of England has been announced by the Prime Minister in New York today.
Major U.S. company Blackstone has confirmed a £10 billion investment in the North East of England to create one of the largest artificial intelligence data centres in Europe

Move will create 4,000 jobs for British people and benefit the local community in Blyth

Prime Minister continues his international drive to boost the UK’s reputation on the global stage, unlock new opportunities to drive growth at home and improve the lives of British people

A major £10 billion investment which will create thousands of jobs in the North East of England has been announced by the Prime Minister in New York today.

The deal with US investment company Blackstone, facilitated by the Office for Investment, will create the biggest AI data centre in Europe, boosting the UK’s world leading capabilities in the AI sector and driving growth in the local community.

Over 4,000 jobs will be created as a result, including 1,200 roles dedicated to the construction of the site in Blyth, Northumberland. Construction on the site is expected to begin next year, with the data centres set to store the vast amount of data needed to power AI, and to store the information generated by AI systems.

The Prime Minister’s number one mission for government is economic growth, and foreign investment will be a key part of driving it – by creating jobs which will put money into the pockets of hard-working British people.

The local community in Blyth – which suffered as a result of the failure of BritishVolt – will also directly benefit from the investment, with Blackstone confirming it will invest £110 million into a fund – supporting further skills training and transport infrastructure in the area.

The UK is already home to the highest number of data centres in Western Europe and just last month, the government classed data centres as ‘Critical National Infrastructure’ in the first designation in almost a decade to provide greater reassurance to businesses that the UK is a secure place to invest in and develop data centres.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

The number one mission of my government is to grow our economy, so that hard-working British people reap the benefits – and more foreign investment is a crucial part of that plan.

New investment such as the one we’ve announced with Blackstone today is a huge vote of confidence in the UK and it proves that Britain is back as a major player on the global stage and we’re open for business.

Jon Gray, President and Chief Operating Officer of Blackstone, said:

The UK is a top investment market for Blackstone because of its powerful combination of talent and innovation along with a highly transparent legal system. We are making significant commitments to building social housing, facilitating the energy transition, growing life sciences companies and developing critical infrastructure needed to fuel the digital economy. This includes a projected £10 billion investment to build one of Europe’s largest hyperscale data centres supporting 4,000 jobs. Blackstone is committed to Britain.

The Prime Minister will meet Blackstone President Jon Gray in New York this morning, as he seeks to rebuild Britain’s reputation as an investment destination in order to drive growth and create opportunities for British people.

This comes ahead of the UK’s International Investment Summit in October, which is set to bring together hundreds of leading CEOs and investors set to attend representing the best of business across the globe, with an ambitious programme to showcase the UK’s economic strengths.

The summit will rebuild Britain’s reputation as an investment destination to drive growth and create opportunities for British people and cement the government’s enduring partnership with businesses to give them the certainty they need to invest and grow in the UK.

Today’s investment also bolsters the UK’s bilateral trading relationship with the US which is already worth over £340 billion – making the US our largest single trading partner.

Every day, 1.2 million Americans go to work for UK-owned businesses and 1.3 million Brits work for US owned companies. Just last year the UK and US together invested over $1.2 trillion in each other’s economies, across key sectors like financial services, green infrastructure, real estate and technology.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)

Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Updates to this page

Published 25 September 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: SECNAV Del Toro Hosts 2nd Integrated Resilience and Mental Health Forum

Source: United States Navy

WASHINGTON – Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro hosted the Department of the Navy’s second Integrated Resilience and Mental Health Forum, September 25.

The forum aimed to foster meaningful discussion across DON stakeholders, enhance the visibility of ongoing and new Navy and Marine Corps initiatives, and cultivate an environment for dialogue centered on mental health and resilience practices.

“As evidence of the importance and impact of this forum, last time we met, we discussed our dire need for more mental health providers across the Fleet and the Force,” said Secretary Del Toro. “It’s important to break down the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s a recognition that we all need support from time to time.”

More than 15 senior leaders and civilians from across the Department attended the forum, including the, Vice Chief of Naval Operations, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs Franklin Parker, Mr. Montel Williams, Dr. Matthew Miller Executive Director, office of Suicide Prevention, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and RADM Rick Freedman, Navy Deputy Surgeon General.

“I’m glad you were able to make it today, and I am incredibly excited to hear about your work with The Research and Recognition Project and about the Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories,” said Secretary Del Toro. “As we all know, the unique stressors of combat can lead to a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and these conditions can have a profound impact on our people’s ability to function effectively, both in the military and in civilian life.”

The Secretary has continued to champion mental health and resiliency initiatives across the Department, and looks for this effort to build on the great work Sailors and Marines are already doing in the Navy and Marine Corps.

In developing these forums, Secretary Del Toro seeks to assess strengthen the state of DON resilience and mental health programs, identify gaps, and create a process to enhance collaboration on these important topics.

The forum is not a task force or working group, but is meant to facilitate an enduring environment of openness and collaboration to ensure continuity of effort across Navy and Marine Corps programs.

“The demands of modern military service are unprecedented, requiring our Sailors and Marines to operate in complex, high-stress environments,” said Secretary Del Toro. “As leaders, it is our responsibility to ensure that our personnel are equipped to not only meet these challenges but also to thrive in the face of adversity.”

In the future, the forum plans to hear from external partners from other military services, government agencies, academia, and the nonprofit sector.

The forums will occur on a biannual basis, with the next one already scheduled for this upcoming spring.

-30-

MIL Security OSI –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: PP24-2 Biomedical Engineers in Kosare

Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

KOSRAE, Federated States of Micronesia (Sept. 19, 2024) – U.S. Navy Chief Hospital Corpsman Juan Madrigal, from Fresno, Calif., and U.S. Navy Chief Hospital Corpsman Victor Tahays, from Miami, Fla., both biomedical engineer technicians assigned with Pacific Partnership 2024-2, discuss their work at Kosrae State Dental Clinic in Kosrae, Federated States of Micronesia, Sept. 19, 2024. Now in its 20th iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the U.S. Navy’s largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy video by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Ryan D. McLearnon/Released)

Date Taken: 09.19.2024

Date Posted: 09.25.2024 17:44

Category: Package

Video ID: 937942

VIRIN: 240919-N-GC639-7470

Filename: DOD_110584550

Length: 00:02:05

Location: KOSRAE, FM

Video Analytics

Downloads: 0

High-Res. Downloads: 0

PUBLIC DOMAIN

This work, PP24-2 Biomedical Engineers in Kosare, by PO1 Ryan McLearnon, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

MORE LIKE THIS

CONTROLLED VOCABULARY KEYWORDS

TAGS

Flag Asset

PP24-2 Biomedical Engineers in Kosare

MIL Security OSI –

January 22, 2025

MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2024-2 End of Mission Wrap Up Video

Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

Video package covering all of Pacific Partnership 2024-2, published Sept. 25, 2024. Now in its 20th iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Gavin Arnoldhendershot)

Date Taken:	09.24.2024
Date Posted:	09.25.2024 17:46
Category:	Video Productions
Video ID:	937941
VIRIN:	240924-N-RM312-1001
Filename:	DOD_110584540
Length:	00:03:01
Location:	KOSRAE, FM

Video Analytics

Downloads:	0
High-Res. Downloads:	0

PUBLIC DOMAIN

This work, Pacific Partnership 2024-2 End of Mission Wrap Up Video, by SA Gavin Arnoldhendershot, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

CONTROLLED VOCABULARY KEYWORDS

TAGS

MIL Security OSI –

January 22, 2025

MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard medevacs 74-year-old male from fishing vessel near San Diego

Source: United States Coast Guard

U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 09/25/2024 05:45 PM EDT

09/25/2024 05:23 PM EDT

SAN DIEGO — A Coast Guard helicopter aircrew medically evacuated a 74-year-old male off the fishing vessel Poseidon approximately 35 miles west of San Diego, Wednesday.

MIL Security OSI –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: 25/09/2024 Breslavia Goal number one – to provide aid effectively

MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

In Wrocław, where the water level dropped below the alarm level for the first time in many days, another meeting of the crisis team with the participation of Prime Minister Donald Tusk was held. The condition of the embankments, which must withstand the pressure of the water, still requires special attention from the services. Clean-up work and preparations for reconstruction are underway in the flooded areas. The government asks local authorities and services to quickly and precisely report their needs. Words of support and appreciation for the military’s actions from foreign partners have also reached Poland. Good news for Wrocław The morning crisis team with the participation of Prime Minister Donald Tusk was held again in Wrocław, where yesterday evening the water level was recorded below the alarm level. “It’s good that we can start the day with this information. I guess we can really say that the flood did not affect Wrocław,” the head of government shared the good news. The Prime Minister noted that this does not mean the end of the services’ efforts. For example, the embankments, which must withstand the pressure of high water levels, still require increased control. The state will not leave anyone without help. Clean-up work is still underway in the flooded areas, including: drying or waste removal. “I want to assure you that this is our number one goal right now, to effectively deliver aid in the coming days, weeks, and if necessary – months. Through people, equipment and money – wherever the flood has taken its toll.” – declared Donald Tusk. It is important that local authorities and services efficiently and precisely report their needs, so that the government can respond quickly. The situation is slowly calming down, but the state authorities remain directly involved in the activities in the areas affected by the flood. “I really want people to see that we are constantly focused and mobilized, that we still remember Głuchołazy, Lądek-Zdrój, Stronie Śląskie…” – emphasized the head of government. The Prime Minister announced that the work of the crisis team will definitely continue. Soldiers remain on site – as part of the military operation Feniks. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz declared that the military field hospital in Nysa will also operate as long as needed. The world supports us and notices the heroic fight against the elements. Words of support are still reaching Poland from abroad. “Yesterday late in the evening, the Secretary General of NATO called me and asked me to convey words of solidarity and admiration for the armed forces in Poland,” said Donald Tusk. There are also proposals for joint actions to prepare Europe for similar crises in the future. “The Prime Minister of France also conveyed expressions of solidarity and support to me last night. France would like to present new initiatives together with Poland so that the European Union is better prepared from the organizational and financial side in such situations requiring the protection of civilians,” the Prime Minister conveyed the French position. These are just two of the many examples of international solidarity that we are now feeling in a special way.

MILES AXIS

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: 25/09/2024 One of the main tasks of the Polish Army today is the disinfection of schools, kindergartens, and homes

MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

One of the main tasks of the Polish Army today is the disinfection of schools, kindergartens, homes25.09.2024– The main and large task for today and the coming days is the disinfection of already cleaned premises, both public utility, such as nurseries, kindergartens, municipal offices, but also apartments and private properties. 18 task teams for disinfection are prepared and moved to Brzeg, because it is in this part of the country that there are great needs in this area – informed Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak – Kamysz in Wrocław.

On September 25, Deputy Prime Minister W. Kosiniak-Kamysz took part in the morning crisis headquarters in Wrocław. The Minister of National Defense presented information on the current involvement of the armed forces in the areas affected by the flood. – At the moment, 25,000 soldiers are involved, and about 20,000 of them are directly involved. We maintain them at a very high level, due to the demand of local governments, in order to organize and clear communication routes, clean properties, farms and houses. These activities will be continued in Operation Fenix – informed the Minister of National Defense. As the minister emphasized, medical care in the post-flood areas is very important at the moment. – The military field hospital in Nysa will operate as long as there is such a need. We want to clean up as soon as possible and open the district hospital, which admitted 120 patients a day to the Emergency Department. Today, these tasks have been largely taken over by the field hospital, but of course it is not possible to perform all procedures there, especially planned procedures. So opening the district hospital in Nysa is a priority. The field hospital will remain even after the county hospital is opened. The field hospital will serve the uniformed services – the army, police and fire brigade in this area – the vice prime minister noted, W. Kosiniak-Kamysz.

Photos (4)

MILES AXIS

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: 25/09/2024 Council of Ministers – aid for flood victims

MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

On Tuesday, September 24, this year, a special session of the Council of Ministers was held. During the first public part of the meeting, the ministers presented reports on the activities of their ministries in connection with the flood. Later in the session, the Council of Ministers adopted a draft act amending the act on special solutions related to the removal of the effects of floods. On Wednesday, the government will present information on its activities in the Sejm. Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced the position of the Council of Ministers regarding the most up-to-date information on the current system.

I want to start every Cabinet meeting, at this critical time, with a briefing on the flood situation.

– said the head of government. The Prime Minister also provided information on the amount of financial resources allocated for flood operations and the reconstruction plan.

Regarding the scale of this aid, in terms of the aid itself during the flood and the plan that we are preparing, “Reconstruction Plus”, at the moment – including European funds – we assume that we will be able to mobilise up to PLN 23 billion.

– he said. Minister of Finance: We are working on increasing the amountEl Minister Andrzej Domański summed up the most important things that the Ministry of Finance has proposed so far. He recalled that at the moment the Ministry of Finance has secured PLN 2 billion in the state budget for the implementation of the most urgent aid tasks related to combating the effects of floods and is still working on increasing this amount.

We are currently issuing decisions releasing funds for voivodes, including for the payment of flood benefits. We are also working together with the local government on direct aid for affected municipalities. Among other things, we have at our disposal funds from the reserve in the amount of PLN 738 million. The decision on the division of this reserve will be made together with the local government.

– informed the Minister of Finance. Taxpayers who suffered as a result of the flood may apply for the cancellation of tax liabilities.

We remind you that entrepreneurs affected by floods can apply for a write-off of tax liabilities in the manner provided for in the tax ordinance. Regardless of this solution, we have introduced a regulation extending the tax payment deadlines for entrepreneurs affected by floods.

– emphasized the Minister of Finance. The non-repayable aid can be counted on, among others, by borrowers whose mortgage obligation will be taken over by the state for 12 months.

We are introducing non-refundable assistance for mortgage borrowers. The support will consist of repayment by the Borrower Support Fund of the borrower’s obligations under the housing loan for a period of 12 months regardless of the amount of the loan installment.

– the minister informed Domański. The minister also reminded about the regulation introducing a 0% IVA rate for donations of goods and services transferred to flood victims and informed about the activities of the National Revenue Administration.

We have also introduced a zero VAT rate for donations of goods and services made by Polish entrepreneurs to flood victims. The National Revenue Administration issues certificates to flood victims immediately.

– the minister informed.

MILES AXIS

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: 25/09/2024 First meeting of the Polish Network of Women in Diplomacy

MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

Today, in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in the presence of Undersecretary of State Henryka Mościcka – Dendys and Anna Radwan – Röhrenschef, the Polish Network of Women in Diplomacy was initiated. The inauguration was attended by over 50 representatives of the Polish foreign service, both from the MFA Headquarters and foreign missions. The guest of honour of the event was Grażyna Bernatowicz, Undersecretary of State at the MFA in 2000–2003 and 2007–2013 and former Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to the Kingdom of Spain and the Czech Republic. The Polish Network of Women in Diplomacy is part of the Red de Mujeres Diplomáticas de la UE – “WEDIN”. It brings together networks of women diplomats from European Union Member States, Ministries of Foreign Affairs and the European External Action Service. The aim of WEDIN is to exchange experiences, develop mechanisms to support and facilitate women’s career development and ensure equal treatment in diplomacy. During the first meeting, the principles of the Network’s operation were defined, its structures were agreed and activities for the coming year were planned. The Polish Network of Women in Diplomacy will serve, among others: – exchange of information, promotion of topics important to women and their professional careers in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, development of solutions and provision of support to women diplomats in combining professional and personal life; – support for the professional development of women in diplomacy, promotion of gender equality and counteracting discrimination; – promotion of gender equality and combating all forms of discrimination and raising awareness in this area, including on the causes and effects of violating the principle of equal treatment; – representing women’s interests in contacts with the management of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; – cooperation with social partners, non-governmental organizations and other entities in the field of the role of women in diplomacy, equal treatment and counteracting discrimination;– supporting the development of cooperation with foreign partners, including foreign associations and networks of women in diplomacy and other countries and international organisations;– supporting the implementation of national and international commitments in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including those resulting from the UN agenda “Women, Peace and Security”. As a result, the initiative creates the opportunity to propose solutions that will help women in diplomacy combine professional work with family life, allow them to develop their skills and abilities, and thus adapt Polish diplomacy to positive global standards and trends regarding the role of women in foreign policy.

Photo: Sebastian Indra/Ministry of Foreign Affairs

MILES AXIS

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: Chilkoot Way Road Improvements in Whitehorse

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Government of Canada – in French

Press release

Daily travel on the Chilkoot Way in Whitehorse will be improved thanks to a joint investment of $850,000 from the federal government and the City of Whitehorse.

Whitehorse, Yukon, September 25, 2024 — Daily travel on the Chilkoot Way in Whitehorse will be improved thanks to a joint investment of $850,000 from the federal government and the City of Whitehorse.

The work involves installing a new two-way protected bike lane on the north side of Chilkoot Way, creating a new pedestrian crossing, installing signage, completing pavement markings in critical areas, and providing improved lighting. In addition, traffic signals will be upgraded, a new advanced left-turn signal will be installed at Chilkoot and Two Mile Hill, and a new cycle push button will be installed to improve accessibility. The bike path will connect residents to downtown schools, the Whitehorse Health Clinic, workplaces and retail businesses along the river, and roads that connect neighbourhoods.

Improving the Chilkoot Way will provide a more accessible and safer active transportation route to the Riverfront and Two Mile Hill multi-use paved trails. It will also make it easier for people to get around by walking, cycling or taking public transit.

Quotes

“Improving active transportation routes for communities supports healthier travel. Work on the Chilkoot Way in Whitehorse will make transportation infrastructure more accessible for cyclists, pedestrians and transit users, making it easier for them to get around every day.”

The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

“We are pleased to partner with the federal government to enhance Whitehorse’s active transportation network. The new active transportation route along the Chilkoot Way is a game changer for cyclists commuting downtown. It also promotes inclusion, health and connection by meeting the needs of all, regardless of mobility level, age or fitness level. This project demonstrates the City’s ongoing commitment to building a more sustainable and accessible community.”

Laura Cabott, Mayor of Whitehorse

Quick Facts

The federal government is investing $588,750 in this project through the Active Transportation Fund (ATF), and the City of Whitehorse is contributing $261,250.

Active transportation refers to the movement of people or goods through human activity. This includes walking, cycling, and the use of human-powered or hybrid mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, electric scooters, e-bikes, inline skates, snowshoeing, cross-country skis, and more.

To support Canada’s first National Active Transportation Strategy, the Active Transportation Fund is providing $400 million over five years, starting in 2021, to make active transportation travel easier, safer, more convenient and more enjoyable.

Canada’s National Active Transportation Strategy is the first pan-Canadian strategic approach to promoting active transportation and its benefits. The strategy aims to make data- and evidence-based investments to expand and build new active transportation networks, and to support healthier, more active, more equitable and more sustainable travel.

Investing in active transportation infrastructure provides many tangible benefits, creating good middle-class jobs, strengthening the economy, promoting healthier lifestyles, ensuring everyone has access to the same services and opportunities, reducing air and noise pollution, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The new Canada Public Transit Fund (CCTF) will provide an average of $3 billion per year in permanent funding to address local transit needs by strengthening integrated planning, improving access to transit and active transportation, and supporting the development of more affordable, sustainable and inclusive communities.

The FTCC serves the needs of communities of all sizes, from large metropolitan areas to mid-sized and smaller communities, including rural, remote, northern and Indigenous communities.

We are currently accepting expressions of interest for Metropolitan Area Agreements and Core Funding. Visit the website Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada website to find out more.

Related links

Contact persons

For further information (media only), please contact:

Sofia OuslisCommunications AdvisorOffice of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and CommunitiesSofia.ouslis@infc.gc.ca

Media RelationsHousing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada613-960-9251Toll free: 1-877-250-7154Email:media-medias@infc.gc.caFollow us onTwitter,Facebook,InstagramAndLinkedInWebsite:Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada

Matthew CameronManager, Strategic CommunicationsCity of Whitehorse867-689-0515matthew.cameron@whitehorse.ca

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: 25/09/2024 The Minister of Finance signed a regulation enabling the use of zero IVA for donations of building materials to flood victims

MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

The Minister of Finance has signed a regulation enabling the application of zero IVA for donations of building materials to flood victims25/09/2024

The Minister of Finance has signed a regulation that introduces a 0% VAT rate for donations of construction materials made to victims whose properties were destroyed by the flood. The purpose of the solution is to facilitate the reconstruction or renovation of buildings and structures destroyed by the flood. The 0% rate applies to donations of construction materials made by March 31, 2025. On September 24, 2024, a regulation is in force that allows the application of a 0% VAT rate for donations of construction materials made to victims whose properties were destroyed by the September cataclysm. The 0% rate applies to donations of construction materials made directly to: individuals, entities conducting activities: education, cultural, in the field of health care, social welfare, care for children, youth and the elderly, in the field of collective accommodation for students,

whose real estate is located in communes affected by the disaster and who have the formal right to dispose of these real estate. In order to maintain the “tightness” of the IVA system, the 0% rate will apply provided that: a written donation agreement is concluded between the taxpayer (donor) and the disposer real estate, the taxpayer (donor) has a document confirming damage to the real estate resulting from a flood: if the real estate administrator is a natural person – an appropriate questionnaire from a family environmental interview conducted by a social worker, if the real estate administrator is one of the indicated entities (i.e. . conducting educational, cultural, care activities, etc.) – a certificate issued by the relevant commune head, mayor or president.

The 0% rate may be applied to donations of construction materials made from the date of entry into force of the regulation, i.e. September 24, 2024, March 31, 2025. The aim of the solution is to facilitate the reconstruction or renovation of buildings and structures destroyed by flooding, and thus to speed up the return of residents of the disaster-affected area to normal life.

MILES AXIS

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SARP West 2024 Terrestrial Ecology Group

Source: NASA

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Dan Sousa, San Diego State University
Graduate Mentor: Megan Ward-Baranyay, San Diego State University

[embedded content]
Megan Ward Baranyay, graduate student mentor for the 2024 SARP West Land group, provides an introduction for each of the group members and shares behind-the scenes moments from the internship.

[embedded content]

Predicting Ammonia Plume Presence at Feedlots in the San Joaquin Valley from VSWIR Spectroscopy of the Land Surface
Gerrit Hoving, Carleton College
Industrial-scale livestock farms, or Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs), are a major source of air pollutants including ammonia, methane, and hydrogen sulfide. Ammonia in particular is a major contributor to rural air pollution that is released from the breakdown of livestock effluent. Mitigating regional air pollution through improved waste management practices is only possible if emissions can be accurately monitored. However, ammonia is challenging to measure directly due to its short atmospheric lifetime and lack of VSWIR spectral signature. Here we investigate the potential for spectroscopic
imaging of the CAFO land surface to predict the presence of detectable ammonia emissions. Data from the Hyperspectral Thermal Emission Spectrometer (HyTES) instrument were found to clearly identify plumes of ammonia emitted by specific feedlots. Plume presence or absence was then tied to pixel-level reflectance spectra from the Earth Surface Mineral Dust Source (EMIT) instrument. Random forest classification models were found to predict ammonia plume presence/absence from VSWIR reflectance alone with an accuracy in the range of 70% to 80%. Our conclusions are limited by the limited number of
feedlots overflown by HyTES (n=96), the time gap between HyTES and EMIT data, and potential difficulty in comparing feedlots in different regions. While only tested over a modest area, our results suggest that ammonia plume presence/absence may be
predictable on the basis of surface features identifiable from VSWIR reflectance alone. Further investigation could focus on more comprehensive model validation, including characterization of the land surface processes and spectral signatures associated with feedlot surfaces with and without observable ammonia plumes. If generalizable, these results suggest that EMIT data may in some circumstances be used to predict the presence of ammonia emission plumes at feedlots in other areas, potentially enabling broader accounting of feedlot ammonia emissions.

[embedded content]

Burn to Bloom: Assessing the Impact of Coastal Wildfires on Phytoplankton Dynamics in California
Benjamin Marshburn, California Polytechnic State University- San Luis Obispo
California is experiencing rising temperatures as well as increased frequency and length of drought conditions due to anthropogenic climate change. Wildfires are an intrinsic component of California and its Mediterranean ecosystems. However, this change in natural wildfire behavior increases the risk to ecosystems including soil erosion, poor plant regrowth, and ash/nutrient runoff that leads to the ocean. Previous work has attributed phytoplankton blooms in the coastal ocean to runoff from wildfires. This study aims to quantify the extent to which the concentration of chlorophyll-a, an indicator of phytoplankton abundance, can be predicted by wildfire parameters in coastal California and to evaluate which parameters are the most important predictors. Due to climatic variation in California we split the coast into three regions, northern, central and southern, and analyzed three fires from each area. For each fire, the stream length connecting the most severely burned area and the ocean was derived from analysis of a digital elevation model acquired by the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission. Additionally, differenced Normalized Burn Ratio (dNBR) was used to analyze burn severity for each fire. The change in chlorophyll-a levels before and after each fire from the impacted coastal area were evaluated using the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA’s Aqua satellite. The Random Forest Regression machine learning model did not strongly predict the difference in chlorophyll-a from the fire parameters. However, our moderate R2 value (0.36) shows promising avenues for future work, including investigating post-fire chlorophyll-a after the first significant rain event, as well as the impact of wind-blown ash on coastal chlorophyll-a concentrations.

[embedded content]

Species-specific Impact on Maximum Fire Temperature in Prescribed Burns at Sedgwick Reserve
Hannah Samuelson, University of St. Thomas
Fuel load plays a key role in determining severity (change in biomass), intensity (temperature), and frequency (length in time) of wildfires and prescribed fires. Fuel loads can vary in fuel conditions, like moisture content, amount, and flammability of the fuel, and are affected by species type and climatic conditions. Moreover, the difference in the chemical composition of plant species can affect its flammability. Anecdotal evidence from firefighters claim that Purple Sage burns hotter than other shrubs. Here we focus on two shrub species and two tree species that are broadly representative of California foothills; Blue Oak (Quercus douglasii), Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia), Purple Sage (Salvia leucophylla), and California Sagebrush (Artemisia californica), and aim to understand species-specific proclivity to burn with higher or lower severity and intensity. In fall of 2023, a prescribed fire was conducted at Sedgwick Reserve in Santa Barbara County, CA. Field data collection included maximum temperature point measurements with metal pyrometers, the change in 3D vegetation structure using UAV LiDAR, and orthomosaic images for species identification. Radial buffers were created around the locations of the metal pyrometers and used to evaluate the spatial distribution of species, which were verified through field-observed species identification. The relationship between dominant overstory species, change in biomass, and maximum fire temperature was investigated. Preliminary results suggest that Purple Sage produced the highest maximum fire temperatures. Additionally, preliminary results showed both tree species, Blue Oak and Coast Live Oak, exhibit similar biomass change at low maximum fire temperatures. This investigation confirmed the firefighters’ anecdotal evidence on the relationship between species and their wildfire dynamics. The results have the potential to refine fire spread models and ultimately land management practices, improving the protection of humans and infrastructure while preventing habitat destruction from wildfires.

[embedded content]

Quantifying the Influence of Soil Type, Slope, and Aspect on Live Fuel Load in Sedgwick Reserve
Angelina Harris, William & Mary
The severity and increasing frequency of California wildfires requires investigation of factors that characterize pre-fire landscapes to improve approaches to wildland management and predict the spread of wildfire. Quantifying the relationship between soil type and fuel load could improve existing efforts to map both overall quantity and composition of live fuel for fire spread models which may assist in preventative wildfire measures and potentially active firefighting work. The southwest corner of Sedgwick Reserve, Santa Barbara County, CA hosts two dominant soil types that broadly represent soil variability in the area. The more northerly soil unit is a Chamise shaly loam, and the more southerly soil unit is a Shedd silty clay loam. The Chamise series has a mixed texture, abundant in clay with a significant amount of rock fragments (> 35%) composing its texture while the Shedd series has a fine texture dominated by silt-sized particles. Topography, specifically slope and aspect, plays a significant role in formation and characteristics of soil due to influence on erosion and deposition and sun exposure, respectively. This research aims to explore the relationship between soil type and topography and quantify their influence on live fuel using a Canopy Height Model (CHM) derived from airborne LiDAR collected on 11/04/2020 with a point density of 10.19 pts/m2. The LiDAR-based CHM was filtered to separate trees (> 2 m) and shrubs (.07 – 2 m). A Random Forest Regressor was used to investigate the relationship between soil type, slope, and aspect to identify which variable is the best predictor of canopy height. Preliminary results suggested that soil type and aspect were the most important variables to determine canopy height (variable importance of .50 and .41, respectively). Further studies investigating quantity and composition of live fuel load focusing on additional soil units within Sedgwick Reserve are encouraged.

[embedded content]

From Canopy to Chemistry: Exploring the Relationship Between Vegetation Phenology and Isoprene Emission
Emily Rogers, Bellarmine University
Isoprene (2-methyl-1,3-butadiene) represents the most abundant non-methane biogenic volatile organic compound in the troposphere, with annual emissions almost equal to those of methane. Depending on the chemical environment, this effective thermoregulator and reactive oxygen species scavenger participates in photochemical reactions to produce climate pollutants and toxins such as ozone and secondary organic aerosols. Previous studies have revealed strong connections between isoprene emission and photosynthesis as its precursors are formed during the Calvin Cycle. This raises questions as to whether the periodic biological events of plants, collectively known as vegetation phenology, influences tropospheric isoprene quantities. In this study, we investigate the influence of vegetation phenology on isoprene emission in Southern California by comparing photosynthetic activity and the spatial distribution of the isoprene oxidation product, formaldehyde, for regions dominated by plants of two different physiologies: high altitude woodlands and coastal shrublands. We interrogate the annual phenology of these regions using high resolution solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) estimates from the Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 (OCO-2) satellite, and formaldehyde vertical column measurements from the recently activated Tropospheric Emissions: Monitoring of Pollution (TEMPO) geostationary satellite. We explore the seasonal trends in both formaldehyde formation and SIF as well as their bivariate relationship. Preliminary results indicate both heightened formaldehyde emission and heightened SIF during summer months relative to winter months, with a comparatively stronger correlation between the two metrics during the fall. Our findings will provide insight toward the response of plants to variations in their environment which directly influence chemical systems in the air. Whereas VOCs hold a great potential for environmental and anthropological harm if emitted in excess, it is crucial to understand the factors involved in their formation. As such, we hope that our findings provide information relevant to the development of air pollution mitigation strategies.

[embedded content]

Keeping it Fresh(water): Understanding the Influence of Surface Mineralogy on Groundwater Quality within Volcanic Aquifer Systems
Sydney Kent, Miami University
Geology plays a key role in determining the chemical profile of groundwater through weathering and erosion, leading to minerals entering the groundwater. The Columbia Plateau, a geologic region that resides within the Pacific Northwest volcanic aquifer system, is known to have water management issues due to groundwater extraction for agriculture. Decreases in groundwater levels can lead to higher concentrations of rock-originated minerals, so the relationship between basaltic geology and well water quality is particularly important in these systems. This research aims to assess the extent in which the basaltic surface mineralogy of the Columbia Plateau impacts predetermined health benchmarks pertaining to trace elements, radionuclides, and nutrients. NASA’s Earth Surface Mineral Dust Source Investigation (EMIT) instrument, a spaceborne imaging spectrometer on the International Space Station, was used to map surface minerals within and among distinct regions of the Columbia Plateau. Some basalt aquifers have uranium that decays to radon-222, a mineral that can be toxic when consumed, as well as lithium, which is commonly found during volcanic eruptions. Preliminary findings showed that where basalt and its secondary minerals were identified with EMIT, chlorite and calcite, well data also indicated raised levels of lithium and radon-222. The relationship between EMIT mineral maps and water quality data indicated that EMIT can potentially be used to identify basalt aquifer systems that may be at risk of poor water quality. Results from this study can be used to enact more personalized water purification methods in areas with water quality issues and individuals with private wells can be more informed about the hazards present in their water.
Click here watch the Atmospheric Aerosols Group presentations.
Click here watch the Ocean Group presentations.
Click here watch the Whole Air Sampling (WAS) Group presentations.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SARP West 2024 Whole Air Sampling (WAS) Group

Source: NASA

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Donald Blake, University of California, Irvine
Graduate Mentor: Katherine Paredero, Georgia Institute of Technology

[embedded content]
Katherine Paredero, graduate student mentor for the 2024 SARP West Whole Air Sampling (WAS) group, provides an introduction for each of the group members and shares behind-the scenes moments from the internship.

[embedded content]

Urban Planning Initiative: Investigation of Isoprene Emissions by Tree Species in the LA Basin
Mikaela Vaughn, Virginia Commonwealth University
Elevated ozone concentrations have been a concern in Southern California for decades. The interaction between volatile organic compounds (VOC) and nitrous oxides (𝑁𝑂!) in the presence of sunlight leads to enhanced formation of tropospheric ozone (𝑂”) and secondary organic aerosols (SOA). This can lead to increased health hazards, exposing humans to aerosols that can enter and be absorbed by the lungs, as well as a warming effect caused by ozone’s role as a greenhouse gas in the lower levels of the atmosphere. This study will focus on a VOC that is of particular interest, isoprene, which has an atmospheric lifetime of one hour, making it highly reactive in the presence of the hydroxyl radical (OH) and resulting in rapid ozone formation. Isoprene is a biogenic volatile organic compound (BVOC) emitted by vegetation as a byproduct of photosynthesis. This BVOC has been overlooked but should be investigated further because of its potential to form large sums of ozone. In this study the reactivity of isoprene with OH dominated ozone formation as compared to other VOCs. Ambient isoprene concentrations were measured aboard NASA’s airborne science laboratory (King Air B200) along with whole air sampling canisters. Additionally, isoprene emissions of varying tree species, with one to three samples per type, were compared to propose certain trees to plant in urban areas. Results indicated that Northern Red Oaks and the Palms family emitted the most isoprene out of the nineteen species documented. The species with the lowest observed isoprene emissions was the Palo Verde and the Joshua trees. The difference in isoprene emissions between the Northern Red Oak and Joshua trees is approximately by a factor of 45. These observations show the significance of considering isoprene emissions when selecting tree species to plant in the LA Basin to combat tropospheric ozone formation.

[embedded content]

VOC Composition and Ozone Formation Potential Observed Over Long Beach, California
Joshua Lozano, Sonoma State University
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), when released into the atmosphere, undergo chemical reactions in the presence of sunlight that can generate tropospheric ozone, which can have various health effects. We can gauge this ozone formation by multiplying the observed mixing ratios of VOCs by their respective rate constants (with respect to OH radicals). The OH radical reacts very quickly in the atmosphere and accounts for a large sum of ozone formation from VOCs as a result, giving us an idea of the ozone formation potential (OFP) for each VOC. In this study, we investigate observed mixing ratios of VOCs in order to estimate their contribution to OFP over Long Beach, California. The observed species of VOCs with the highest mixing ratios differs from the observed species with the highest OFP, which highlights that higher mixing ratios of certain VOCs in the atmosphere do not necessarily equate to a higher contribution to ozone formation. This underscores the importance of understanding mixing ratios of VOC species and their reaction rates with OH to gauge impacts on ozone formation. In the summer there were significantly lower VOC concentrations compared to the winter, which was expected because of differences in boundary layer height within the seasons. Additionally, a decrease in average mixing ratios was observed between the summer of 2014 and the summer of 2022. A similar trend was observed in OFP, but by a much smaller factor. This may indicate that even though overall VOC emissions are decreasing in Long Beach, the species that dominate in recent years have a higher OFP. This research provides a more comprehensive view of how VOCs contribute to air quality issues across different seasons and over time, stressing the need for targeted strategies to mitigate ozone pollution based on current and accurate VOC composition and reactivity.

[embedded content]

Investigating Enhanced Methane and Ethane Emissions over the Long Beach Airport
Sean Breslin, University of Delaware
As climate change continues to worsen, the investigation and tracking of greenhouse gas emissions has become increasingly important. Methane, the second most impactful greenhouse gas, has accounted for over 20% of planetary warming since preindustrial times. Methane emissions primarily originate from biogenic and thermogenic sources, such as dairy farms and natural gas extraction. Ethane, an abundant hydrocarbon emitted from biomass burning and natural gas, contributes to the formation of tropospheric ozone. The data for this project was collected in December 2021 and June 2022 aboard the DC-8 aircraft, where whole air samples were taken during low approaches to find potential sources of methane and ethane emissions. Analysis of these samples using gas chromatography revealed a noticeable increase in methane and ethane concentrations over Long Beach Airport, an area surrounded by numerous plugged oil and gas wells extracting crude oil and natural gas. In this study, we observe that methane and ethane concentrations were lower in the summer and higher in the winter, which can be primarily attributed to seasonal variations in the Atmospheric Boundary Layer height. Our results show that in both summer and winter campaigns, the ratio of these two gases over the airport was approximately 0.03, indicating that for every 100 methane molecules, there are 3 ethane molecules. This work identifies methane and ethane hotspots and provides a critical analysis on potential fugitive emission sources in the Long Beach area. These results emphasize a need to perform in depth analyses on potential point sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the Long Beach area.

[embedded content]

Investigating Elevated Levels of Toluene during Winter in the Imperial Valley
Katherine Skeen, University of North Carolina at Charlotte
The Imperial County in Southern California experiences pollutants that do not meet the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, and as a result, residents are suffering from adverse health effects. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are compounds with a high vapor pressure at room temperature. They are readily emitted into the atmosphere and form ground level ozone. Toluene is a VOC and exposure poses significant health risks, including neurological and respiratory effects. This study aims to use airborne data to investigate areas with high toluene concentrations and investigate potential source. Flights over the Imperial Valley were conducted in the B200 King Air. Whole air canisters were used to collect ambient air samples from outside the plane. These Whole Air Canisters were put through the UCI Rowland Blake Lab’s gas chromatograph mass spectrometer, which identifies different gasses and quantifies their concentrations. Elevated values of toluene were found in the winter as compared to the summer in the Imperial Valley, with the town of Brawley having the most elevated amounts in the air. Excel and QGIS were utilized to analyze data trends. Additionally, a backward trajectory calculated using the NOAA HYSPLIT model revealed the general air flow on days exhibiting high toluene concentrations. Here we suggest Long Beach may be a source of enhanced toluene levels in Brawley. Both areas exhibited enhanced levels of toluene with slightly lower concentrations observed in Brawley. We additionally observed other VOCs commonly emitted in urban areas, and saw a similar decrease in gasses from Long Beach to Brawley. This trend may indicate transport of toluene from Long Beach to Brawley. Further research could be done to investigate the potential for other regions that may contribute to high toluene concentrations in Brawley. My study contributes valuable insights to the poor air quality in the Imperial Valley, providing a foundation for future studies on how residents are specifically being affected.

[embedded content]

Characterizing Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Emissions from Surface Expressions of the Salton Sea Geothermal System (SSGS)
Ella Erskine, Tufts University
At the southeastern end of the Salton Sea, surface expressions of an active geothermal system are emitting an assemblage of potentially toxic and tropospheric ozone-forming gasses. Gas measurements were taken from ~1 to 8 ft tall mud cones, called gryphons, in the Davis-Schrimpf seep field (~50,000 ft2). The gaseous compounds emitted from the gryphons were collected using whole air sampling canisters. The canisters were then sent to the Rowland-Blake laboratory for analysis using gas chromatography techniques. Samples from June of 2022, 2023, and 2024 were utilized for a time-series analysis of VOC distribution. Originally, an emission makeup similar to petroleum was expected, as it has previously been found in some of the seeps. It is thought that hydrothermal fluid can rapidly mature organic matter into hydrothermal petroleum, so it is logical that the emission makeup could be similar. However, unexpectedly high levels of the VOC benzene were recorded, unlike concentrations generally observed in crude oil emissions. This may indicate a difference between the two sources in regard to their formation process or parent material composition. A possible cause of the elevated benzene could be its relatively high aqueous solubility compared to other hydrocarbons, which could allow it to be more readily incorporated into the hydrothermal fluid. Since the gryphons attract almost daily visitors, it is important to quantify their human health effects. Benzene harms the bone marrow, which can result in anemia. It is also a carcinogen. Additionally, benzene can react with the OH radical to form ozone, an additional health hazard. Future studies should revisit the Davis-Schrimpf field to continue the time series analysis and collect samples of the water seeps. Additionally, drone and ground studies should be conducted in the geothermal power plant adjacent to the gryphons to determine if benzene is being emitted from drilling activities.

[embedded content]

Airborne and Ground-Based Analysis of Los Angeles County Landfill Gas Emissions
Amelia Brown, Hamilton College
California has the highest number of landfills of any individual US state. These landfills are concentrated in densely populated areas of California, especially within the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Landfills produce three main byproducts: heat, leachate, and landfill gas (LFG). LFG is primarily composed of methane (CH₄) and carbon dioxide (CO₂), with small concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other trace gases. The CH4 and CO2 components of LFG are well documented, but the VOCs and trace gases in LFG remain underexplored. This study investigates the emission of trace gases from four landfills in Los Angeles County, with a particular focus on substances known to have high Ozone Depletion Potentials (ODPs) and Global Warming Potentials (GWPs). The four landfills sampled were Chiquita Canyon Landfill, Lopez Canyon Landfill, Sunshine Canyon Landfill, and Toyon Canyon Landfill. Airborne samples were taken above the four landfills and ground samples were taken at Lopez Canyon as this was the only site accessible by our research team. The substances of interest were chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and halons. Airborne CH4 and CO2 measurements over the four landfills were obtained using the Picarro instrument onboard NASA’s B-200 aircraft. Ground samples were collected using whole air sampling canisters and were analyzed to determine the concentrations of these gases. The analytical approach for the ground samples combined Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) with Flame Ionization Detection (FID) and Mass Selective Detection (MSD), providing a comprehensive profile of the emitted compounds. Findings reveal elevated levels of substances with high ODP and GWP, which were banned under the Montreal Protocol of 1987 and its subsequent amendments due to their contributions to stratospheric ozone depletion and climate change. These results underscore the importance of monitoring and mitigating landfill gas emissions, particularly for those containing potent greenhouse gases and ozone-depleting substances.
Click here watch the Atmospheric Aerosols Group presentations.
Click here watch the Terrestrial Ecology Group presentations.
Click here watch the Ocean Group presentations.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SARP West 2024 Oceans Group

Source: NASA

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Henry Houskeeper, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute
Graduate Mentor: Lori Berberian, University of California, Los Angeles

[embedded content]
Lori Berberian graduate student mentor for the 2024 SARP West Oceans group, provides an introduction for each of the group members and shares behind-the scenes moments from the internship.

[embedded content]

Leveraging High Resolution PlanetScope Imagery to Quantify oil slick Spatiotemporal Variability in the Santa Barbara Channel
Emory Gaddis, Colgate University
Located within the Santa Barbara Channel of California, Coal Oil Point is one of the world’s largest hydrocarbon seep fields. The area’s natural hydrocarbon seepage and oil production have sustained both scientific interest and commercial activity for decades. Historically, indigenous peoples in the region utilized the naturally occurring tar for waterproofing baskets, establishing early evidence of the natural presence of hydrocarbons long before modern oil extraction began. Gaseous hydrocarbons are released from the marine floor through the process of seeping, wherein a buildup of reservoir pressure relative to hydrostatic pressure causes bubbles, oily bubbles, and droplets to rise to the surface. This hydrocarbon seepage is a significant source of Methane CH4—a major greenhouse gas––emissions into the atmosphere. Current limitations of optical remote sensing of oil presence and absence in the ocean leverage geometrical as well as biogeochemical factors and include changes in observed sun glint, sea surface damping, and wind roughening due to changes in surface oil concentrations. We leverage high-resolution (3m) surface reflectance observations obtained from PlanetScope to construct a time series of oil slick surface area spanning 2017 to 2023 within the Coal Oil Point seep field. Our initial methods are based on manual annotations performed within ArcGIS-Pro. We assess potential relationships between wind speed and oil slick surface area to support a sensitivity analysis of our time series. Correcting for confounding outside factors (e.g., wind speed) that modify oil slick surface area improves determination of oil slick surface area and helps test for changes in natural seepage rates and whether anthropogenic activities, such as oil drilling, alter natural oil seepage. Future investigations into oil slick chemical properties and assessing how natural seepage impacts marine and atmospheric environments (e.g., surface oil releases methane into the atmosphere) can help to inform the science of optimizing oil extraction locations.

[embedded content]

Investigating Airborne LiDAR Retrievals of an Emergent South African Macroalgae
Rachel Emery, The University of Oklahoma
Right now, the world is facing an unprecedented biodiversity crisis, with areas of high biodiversity at the greatest risk of species extinction. One of these biodiversity hotspots, the Western Cape Province of South Africa, features one of the world’s largest unique marine ecosystems due to the extensive growth of canopy forming kelps, such as Macrocystis and Ecklonia, which provide three-dimensional structure important for fostering biodiversity and productivity. Canopy-forming kelps face increasing threats by marine heatwaves and pollution related to climate change and local water quality perturbation. Though these ecosystems can be monitored using traditional field surveying methods, remote sensing via airborne and satellite observations support improved spatial coverage and resample rates, plus extensive historical continuity for tracking multidecadal scale changes. Passive remote sensing observations—such as those derived using observations from NASA’s Airborne Visible-Infrared Imaging Spectrometer – Next Generation (AVIRIS-NG) —provide high resolution, hyperspectral imagery of oceanic environments anticipated to help characterize community dynamics and quantify macroalga physiological change. Active remote sensing observations, e.g., Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), are less understood in terms of applications to marine ecosystems, but are anticipated to support novel observations of vertical structure not supported using passive aquatic remote sensing. Here we investigate the potential to observe an emergent canopy-forming macroalgae (i.e., Ecklonia, which can extend more than a decimeter above the ocean’s surface) using NASA’s Land, Vegetation, and Ice sensor (LVIS), which confers decimeter-scale vertical resolution. We validate LVIS observations using matchup observations from AVIRIS-NG imagery to test whether LiDAR remote sensing can improve monitoring of emergent kelps in key biodiversity regions such as the Western Cape.

Vertical structure of the aquatic light field based on half a century of oceanographic records from the southern California Current
Brayden Lipscomb, West Virginia University
Understanding the optical properties of marine ecosystems is crucial for improving models related to oceanic productivity. Models relating satellite observations to oceanic productivity or subsurface (e.g., benthic) light availability often suffer from uncertainties in parameterizing vertical structure and deriving columnar parameters from surface observations. The most accurate models use in situ station data, minimizing assumptions such as atmospheric optical thickness or water column structure. For example, improved accuracy of satellite primary productivity models has previously been demonstrated by incorporating information on vertical structure obtained from gliders and floats. We analyze vertical profiles in photosynthetically available radiation (PAR) obtained during routine surveys of the southern California Current system by the California Cooperative Oceanic Fisheries Investigation (CalCOFI). We find that depths of 1% and 10% light availability show coherent log-linear relationships with attenuation measured near surface (i.e., within the first 10 m), despite vertical variability in water column constituent concentrations and instrumentation challenges related to sensitivity, self-shading, and ship adjacency. Our results suggest that subsurface optical properties can be more reliably parameterized from near-surface measurements than previously understood.

[embedded content]

Comparing SWOT and PACE Satellite Observations to Assess Modification of Phytoplankton Biomass and Assemblage by North Atlantic Ocean Eddies
Dominic Bentley, Pennsylvania State University
Upwelling is the shoaling of the nutricline, thermocline, and isopycnals due to advection by eddies of the surface ocean layer. This shoaling effect leads to an increase in the productivity of algal blooms in a given body of water. Mesoscale to deformation scale eddy circulation modulates productivity based on latitude, season, direction, and other physical factors. However, many processes governing the effects of eddies on the ocean microbial environment remain unknown due to limitations in observations linking eddy strength and direction with productivity and ocean biogeochemistry. Currently, satellites are the only ocean observing system that allows for broad spatial coverage with high resample rates, albeit with limitations due to cloud obstructions (including storms that may stimulate productivity) and to observations being limited to the near-surface. A persisting knowledge gap in oceanography stems from limitations in the spatial resolution of observations resolving submesoscale dynamics. The recent launch of the Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) mission in December of 2022 supports observations of upper-ocean circulation with increased resolution relative to legacy missions (e.g. TOPEX/Poseidon, Jason-1, OSTM/Jason-2). Meanwhile, the launch of the Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem (PACE) satellite in February of 2024 is anticipated to improve knowledge of ocean microbial ecosystem dynamics. We match up SWOT observations of sea surface height (SSH) anomalies—informative parameters of eddy vorticity—with PACE observations of surface phytoplankton biomass and community composition to relate the distribution of phytoplankton biomass and assemblage structure to oceanic eddies in the North Atlantic. We observe higher concentrations of Chlorophyll a (Chla) within SSH minima indicating the stimulation of phytoplankton productivity by cyclonic features associated with upwelling-driven nutrient inputs.

[embedded content]

Assessing EMIT observations of harmful algae in the Salton Sea
Abigail Heiser, University of Wisconsin- Madison
In 1905, flooding from the Colorado River gave rise to what would become California’s largest lake, the Salton Sea. Today, the majority of its inflow is sourced from agricultural runoff, which is rich in fertilizers and pollutants, leading to elevated lake nutrient levels that fuel harmful algal blooms (HAB) events. Increasingly frequent HAB events pose ecological, environmental, economic, and health risks to the region by degrading water quality and introducing environmental toxins. Using NASA’s Earth Surface Mineral Dust Source Investigation (EMIT) imaging spectrometer we apply two hyperspectral aquatic remote sensing algorithms; cyanobacteria index (CI) and scattering line height (SLH). These algorithms detect and characterize spatiotemporal variability of cyanobacteria, a key HAB taxa. Originally designed to study atmospheric mineral dust, EMIT’s data products provide novel opportunities for detailed aquatic characterizations with both high spatial and high spectral resolution. Adding aquatic capabilities for EMIT would introduce a novel and cost-effective tool for monitoring and studying the drivers and timing of HAB onset, to improve our understanding of environmental dynamics.

[embedded content]

Reassessing multidecadal trends in Water Clarity for the central and southern California Current System
Emma Iacono, North Carolina State University
Over the past several decades, the world has witnessed a steady rise in average global temperatures, a clear indication of the escalating effects of climate change. In 1990, Andrew Bakun hypothesized that unequal warming of sea and land surface temperatures would increase pressure gradients and lead to rising rates of alongshore upwelling within Eastern Boundary Currents, including the California Current System (CCS). An anticipated increase in upwelling-favorable winds would have profound implications for the productivity of the CCS, wherein upwelled waters supply nutrient injections that sustain and fuel coastal ocean phytoplankton stocks. Increasing upwelling, therefore, is anticipated to increase the turbidity of the upper ocean, corresponding with greater phytoplankton concentrations. Historical observations of turbidity are supported by observations obtained using a Secchi Disk, i.e., an opaque white instrument lowered into the water column. Observations of Secchi depth—or the depth at which light reflected from the Secchi Disk is no longer visible from the surface—provide a quantification of light penetration into the euphotic zone. The shoaling, or shallowing, of Secchi disk depths was previously reported for inshore, transition, and offshore waters of the central and southern CCS for historical observations spanning 1969 – 2007. Here, we reassess Secchi disk depths during the subsequent period spanning 2007 to 2021 and test for more recent changes in water clarity. Additionally, we evaluate the seasonality and spatial patterns of Secchi disk trends to test for potential changes to oceanic microbial ecology. Indications of long-term trends in some of the coastal domains assessed were found. Generally, our findings suggest a reversal of the trends previously reported. In particular, increases in water clarity likely associated with a recent marine heatwave (MHW) may be responsible for recent changes in Secchi disk depth observations, illustrating the importance of MHW events for modifying the CCS microbial ecosystem.
Click here watch the Atmospheric Aerosols Group presentations.
Click here watch the Terrestrial Ecology Group presentations.
Click here watch the Whole Air Sampling (WAS) Group presentations.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: United States Announces Nearly $424 Million in Additional Humanitarian Assistance for the People of Sudan and Others Affected by the Conflict

Source: USAID

Today, the United States announced nearly $424 million in additional humanitarian assistance for people in need in Sudan and in neighboring refugee-hosting countries, including more than $276 million through USAID and more than $147 million through the Department of State. U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield announced this additional assistance at a Sudan-focused event co-hosted by the United States during the UN General Assembly High-level week to call for global action to address the deepening humanitarian crisis in Sudan and its impact on the region.

USAID’s assistance includes $175 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Commodity Credit Corporation, which will help to purchase, ship, and distribute nearly 81,000 metric tons of food commodities from American farmers to support more than 1.2 million people experiencing acute food insecurity in Sudan. USAID and the Department of State’s funding will also support UN and nongovernmental organization partners providing food, health, nutrition, protection, and other critical assistance to people across Sudan and neighboring countries who have been devastated by the ongoing conflict.

This additional funding brings the total U.S. government’s humanitarian assistance in Sudan and neighboring countries since April 2023 to more than $2 billion, including more than $1.1 billion to date in Fiscal Year 2024. We call on other donors to continue their support to meet historic levels of humanitarian needs.

The United States continues to stand with the people of Sudan and call on the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces to protect civilians, facilitate unhindered access so that aid can reach people in need across Sudan, and return to the negotiating table and end this war that is causing needless suffering for the Sudanese people.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Threat Actors Continue to Exploit OT/ICS through Unsophisticated Means

News In Brief – Source: US Computer Emergency Readiness Team

CISA continues to respond to active exploitation of internet-accessible operational technology (OT) and industrial control systems (ICS) devices, including those in the Water and Wastewater Systems (WWS) Sector. Exposed and vulnerable OT/ICS systems may allow cyber threat actors to use default credentials, conduct brute force attacks, or use other unsophisticated methods to access these devices and cause harm.

CISA urges OT/ICS operators in critical infrastructure sectors to apply the recommendations listed in Defending OT Operations Against Ongoing Pro-Russia Hacktivist Activity to defend against this activity. To learn more about secure by design principles and practices, visit CISA’s Secure by Design webpage. For more information and guidance on protection against the most common and impactful threats, tactics, techniques, and procedures, visit CISA’s Cross-Sector Cybersecurity Performance Goals.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: 2024 SARP West Atmospheric Aerosols Group

Source: NASA

Faculty Advisors: Dr. Andreas Beyersdorf, California State University, San Bernardino & Dr. Ann Marie Carlton, University of California
Graduate Mentor: Madison Landi, University of California, Irvine

[embedded content]
Madison Landi, graduate student mentor for the 2024 SARP Aerosols group, provides an introduction for each of the group members and shares behind-the scenes moments from the internship.

[embedded content]

A Comparative Analysis of Tropospheric NO2: Evaluating TEMPO Satellite Data Against Airborne Measurements
Maya Niyogi, Johns Hopkins University
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) plays a major role in atmospheric chemical reactions; the inorganic compound both contributes to tropospheric ozone production and reacts with volatile organic compounds to create health-hazardous particulate matter. The presence of NO2 in the atmosphere is largely due to anthropogenic activity, making NO2 at the forefront of policy decisions and scientific monitoring. The Tropospheric Emissions: Monitoring of Pollution (TEMPO) satellite launched in 2023 with the goal of monitoring pollution across North America. The publicly-accessible data became available for use in May 2024, however parts of the data remain unvalidated and in beta, creating a need for an in situ validation of its data products. Here we analyze TEMPO’s tropospheric NO2 measurements and compare them to aloft NO2 measurements collected during the NASA Student Airborne Research Project (SARP) 2024 airborne campaign. Six of the campaign flights recording NO2 performed a vertical spiral, providing vertical column data that was adjusted to ambient conditions for comparison against the corresponding TEMPO values. Statistical analyses indicate we have reasonable evidence to conclude that TEMPO satellite data and the flight-collected data record similar values. This research fills a critical knowledge gap through the utilization of aloft NO2 measurements to validate NASA’s newly-launched TEMPO satellite. It is expected that future users of TEMPO data can apply these results to better inform project creation and research.

[embedded content]

Investigating the Atmospheric Burden of Black Carbon Over the Past Decade in the Los Angeles Basin
Benjamin Wells, San Diego State University
Black Carbon is a primary aerosol emitted directly into the atmosphere as a result of biomass burning and incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. During the pre-industrial revolution, the main source of black carbon was natural sources whereas currently, the main source is anthropogenic activities. When black carbon is released into the atmosphere, it is a dominant absorber of solar radiation and leads to a significant warming effect on Earth’s climate. In addition to its harmful effects associated with climate change, ambient black carbon inhalation is correlated with adverse health effects such as respiratory and cardiovascular disease, cancer, and premature mortality. In this study, we analyze aloft black carbon measurements in 2016 and 2024 acquired on NASA SARP research flights and compare these concentrations to black carbon measurements taken during the 2010 CalNex field campaign. Both field campaigns flew similar flight paths over the Los Angeles basin allowing us to conduct a critical comparative analysis on vertical and spatial profiles of the atmospheric burden of black carbon over the past 14 years. During the CalNEX study, mass concentrations of black carbon ranged from 0.02 μg/m3 to 0.531 μg/m3, meanwhile 2024 SARP measurements demonstrate concentrations as elevated as 7.83 μg/m3 within the same region. Moreover, similar flight paths conducted during SARP 2024 and 2016 allow for further analysis of aloft black carbon concentrations over a period of time. The results of this study examines and analyzes the changing spatial and temporal characteristics of black carbon throughout the years, leading to an increase of adverse effects on both the climate and public health.

[embedded content]

Tracking Methane and Aerosols in relation to Health Effects in the San Joaquin Valley
Devin Keith, Mount Holyoke College
The San Joaquin Valley (SJV) is located in central California and is one of the most productive agricultural regions in the country for dairy, nuts, and berries, producing more than half of California’s $42 billion output. Due to the SJV’s close proximity to the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range to the East and predominantly Easterly winds, air pollution often accumulates because it is trapped by the geography. Significant chemical constituents of trapped particulate matter are ammonium (NH4), chloride (Cl), sulfate (SO4), nitrate (NO3), black carbon, and organic carbon. The particle size measured in this study is less than 1 micron in diameter, and due to their size, can easily penetrate the respiratory tract leading to adverse health effects such as: asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cardiovascular disease. We employ airborne data collected during the SARP 2024 mission onboard NASA’s P-3 research plane to observe spatial and temporal trends of NH4, Cl, SO4, NO3, and black carbon. Further, we analyze measurements from SARP 2016 flights and compare the atmospheric burden of pollution in the SJV across time. To investigate observations in the context of the public health impacts, we utilize data collected by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazards Assessment and find asthma and cardiovascular disease rates are higher in the SJV hotspots identified here. Per capita health impacts are greater than other California regions such as Los Angeles and San Francisco. The SJV exhibits higher rates of poverty than other communities, which may reveal an environmental justice issue that is difficult to explicitly quantify especially where measurements are sparse.

[embedded content]

Investigating the Effects of Aerosols on Photosynthesis Using Satellite Imaging
Lily Lyons, Brandeis University
Aerosols in the atmosphere can affect the way sunlight travels to the ground by absorbing or scattering light. Sunlight is a critical component in plant photosynthesis, and the way light scatters affects productivity for vegetation and plant growth. When plants absorb sunlight, the chlorophyll in their leaves releases the excess energy as infrared light, which can be measured from space via satellite. To better understand how aerosol loading in the atmosphere affects plant photosynthesis, this study examines locations in Yosemite, Sequoia, Garrett, and Talladega national forests, and compares aerosol optical depth (AOD), normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), and solar induced fluorescence (SIF) in these areas. Yosemite and Sequoia act as proxies for the old growth sequoia grove ecosystems, and Talladega and Garrett act as proxies for the Appalachian mixed mesophytic forest ecosystem. Our results show that within 2015-2020 during July, SIF and NDVI levels are significantly greater in mixed mesophytic forests than in sequoia groves. Using linear regression plots, we determined the correlation between SIF, NDVI and AOD to be weak in the given locations. Greater SIF in mixed mesophytic forests could suggest that the presence of a prominent and biodiverse understory is positive for the overall primary productivity of an ecosystem. This study is a good starting point for analyzing diverse ecosystems using SIF, NDVI and satellite data as proxies for photosynthesis, and broadening the scope of biomes examined for their SIF. Furthermore, it highlights the need for further investigation of aerosol impact on the trajectory and amount of sunlight that reaches certain plants.

[embedded content]

Validating the Performance of CMAQ in Simulating the Vertical Distribution of Trace Gases
Ryleigh Czajkowski, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
Air quality modeling simulates atmospheric processes and air pollutant transport to better understand gas-and particle-phase interactions in the atmosphere. The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) model couples meteorological, emission, and chemical transport predictions to simulate air pollution from local to hemispheric scales. CMAQ provides scientists and regulatory agencies with important assistance in air quality management, policy enactment, atmospheric research, and creating public health advisories. Recently, a new update to CMAQ (v5.4) was released, utilizing new chemistry mechanisms and incorporating a new atmospheric chemistry model. This study evaluates the performance of the latest model update by analyzing multiple time series of vertical distributions of formaldehyde (CH2O) and methane (CH4) in the Los Angeles Basin and Central Valley regions of California. It compares data from aloft measurements taken during NASA SARP 2017 flights with model predictions to evaluate accuracy. Our study analyzes CMAQ’s capabilities in capturing the vertical dispersion of CH2O and CH4 in different regions, offering insights into the effectiveness of CMAQ for air quality management and the analysis of trace and greenhouse gas dynamics. Using NASA airborne data, this research utilizes a diversified data set to validate the model, providing a more comprehensive evaluation of its capabilities, and thus providing valuable insight into future developments of CMAQ.

[embedded content]

Estimating Aerosol Optical Properties Using Mie Theory and Analyzing Their Impact on Radiative Forcing in California
Alison Thieberg, Emory University
Anthropogenic aerosols, unlike greenhouse gasses, provide a net cooling effect to the Earth’s surface. Particles suspended in the atmosphere have the ability to scatter incoming solar radiation, preventing that radiation from heating up the surface. These aerosols like black carbon, ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulfate, and organics are byproducts of both natural and anthropogenic activities. Measuring radiative forcing as a result of these aerosols over time can provide insight on how anthropogenic industries are altering our Earth’s temperature. This study analyzes the changes in radiative forcing from aerosols in central and southern California using data collected from NASA SARP flights from 2016-2024. Aerosol size, composition, and single scattering albedo were used to estimate the aerosol characteristics and to calculate the aerosols’ radiative forcing efficiency. Our results show that aerosols are found to have less of a cooling effect over time when looking at the change in radiative forcing in California from 2016 to 2024. When narrowing in on specific geographic regions, we observe the same trends in the Central Valley with the area becoming warmer as a result of aerosols. However, more southern regions like Los Angeles and the Inland Empire have become cooler from aerosols during this time period. The overall decrease in the cooling effect of California’s aerosols could indicate that the average size of particulates is changing or that the aerosol composition could be shifting to a greater concentration of absorbing aerosols rather than scattering aerosols. This study shows how aerosols influence radiative forcing and their subsequent impacts across regions in California from multiple years.
Click here watch the Terrestrial Ecology Group presentations.
Click here watch the Ocean Group presentations.
Click here watch the Whole Air Sampling (WAS) Group presentations.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: United States Announces Additional Funding to Support Displaced Persons And Host Communities in the Western Hemisphere

Source: USAID

Today, at the Fourth Ministerial Meeting on the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection, Secretary Antony Blinken announced more than $686 million in additional humanitarian, development, economic, and security assistance to facilitate United Nations (UN) and non-governmental organization (NGO) partners’ responses to the needs of displaced persons, migrant and refugee populations, and host communities across the Western Hemisphere.

Today, there are unprecedented levels of forced displacement in the region, with more than 7.7 million Venezuelans displaced due to prolonged political and economic mismanagement, persecution, and violence in Venezuela. The $686 million announced today includes more than $228 million from USAID to provide emergency food assistance to Venezuelan migrants and refugees and host communities in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, as well as other forms of humanitarian aid for vulnerable populations in Venezuela.

The $686 million also includes more than $49 million in economic and development assistance from USAID to support the regularization and integration of migrants, as well as to promote temporary labor mobility opportunities. This support will help migrants to regularize their legal status in the region and access public services and achieve socio-economic integration so they can build new lives and contribute to their new communities. This support will also help facilitate workers’ access to safe, lawful, and temporary labor pathways in countries with demonstrated labor needs not met by the available workforce.

The United States government remains committed to working with partners to support displaced people in the region and to advance a safe, orderly, and humane approach to managing hemispheric migration.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: CISA Releases Anonymous Threat Response Guidance and Toolkit for K-12 Schools
News In Brief – Source: US Computer Emergency Readiness Team

New Resources Will Help K-12 Schools and Law Enforcement Entities Create Tailored Approaches to Addressing Anonymous Threats of Violence

WASHINGTON – Today, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released the Anonymized Threat Response Guidance: A Toolkit for K-12 Schools, a new resource to help kindergarten through grade 12 (K-12) schools and their law enforcement and community partners create tailored approaches to addressing anonymous threats of violence, including those received on social media. The toolkit outlines steps school leaders can take to assess and respond to anonymous threats, better prepare for and prevent future threats, and work in coordination with law enforcement and other local partners when these threats arise. It is co-sealed with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which provided expert feedback on the toolkit’s key principles and strategies.

Social media-based and other types of anonymous threats of violence against K-12 institutions are common. These threats can erode trust that schools are safe places, contribute to losses in learning and instruction time, overwhelm school and law enforcement resources and have lasting psychological impacts on school communities.

“K-12 schools across the country are experiencing a scourge of anonymous threats of violence. School leaders need scalable solutions to navigate these ever-evolving and burdensome threats,” said CISA Director Jen Easterly. “The K-12 Anonymized Threat Response Guidance provides step-by-step approaches to help schools better assess and respond to these threats, as well as take action to mitigate future risks in coordination with their law enforcement and other community partners.”

“Families, students and educators should not have to question whether they’re safe when they walk into a classroom,” said FBI Office of Partner Engagement Assistant Director, Robert Contee. “In the face of these ongoing school threats, the strategies the FBI and our partners at CISA put together will hopefully prepare our educators and administrators to maneuver through difficult challenges. The more parents, teachers and administrators know, the more likely we are to keep our kids safe. The FBI is dedicated to safeguarding schools and communities who are impacted by anonymous threats, but we also want to urge parents to talk with their children about the consequences that come with making these threats. We all need to work together.”

The K-12 Anonymized Threat Response Guidance was developed to provide K-12 stakeholders with information to both protect school communities and limit the disruption and trauma that can be caused by anonymous threats of violence. By providing guidance to inform decision-making about the urgency and credibility of individual threats, school and public safety leaders may be able to more effectively balance the full range of risks faced by K-12 organizations.

The toolkit emphasizes six key strategies for schools to consider when addressing anonymous threats:
- Build awareness about reporting to detect threats early and deter future threats.
- Develop a partnership structure that will help address threats. This includes school administrators, law enforcement personnel and mental health professionals.
- Engage law enforcement to manage threat situations and decide when to scale response actions up or down.
- Balance initial response steps to ensure the campus is safe. Most critically, treat each threat as credible, and from there, work with necessary partners to determine how to approach an immediate response.
- When appropriate, tap into multidisciplinary threat assessment teams to support interventions and expedite response if the subject who made the threat becomes known.
- Take steps throughout the school year to prepare for threats. Establish a response protocol and practice other types of emergency management activities, such as training exercises for staff.
Today’s release also includes a supplemental reference guide that provides streamlined information for K-12 stakeholders to understand and utilize some of the best practices from the full toolkit. Both products were developed to support the diverse range of K-12 school settings across the United States and are based on current practices of K-12 organizations and law enforcement agencies.

The new toolkit and guide were announced at CISA’s 2024 National Summit on K-12 School Safety and Security, an annual event that brings together K-12 school leaders and practitioners to discuss and share actionable recommendations that enhance safe and supportive learning environments.

To learn more and access the K-12 Anonymized Threat Response Guidance, please click here.

###

About CISA

As the nation’s cyber defense agency and national coordinator for critical infrastructure security, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency leads the national effort to understand, manage, and reduce risk to the digital and physical infrastructure Americans rely on every hour of every day.

Visit CISA.gov for more information and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram.

MIL OSI USA News –
January 22, 2025

Date Taken:	09.19.2024
Date Posted:	09.25.2024 17:44
Category:	Package
Video ID:	937942
VIRIN:	240919-N-GC639-7470
Filename:	DOD_110584550
Length:	00:02:05
Location:	KOSRAE, FM

Category: AM-NC

Rep. Blunt Rochester Statement on Passage of House Continuing Resolution

The Legislation Extends the Filing Deadline for Victims of the Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fires

Share this page

Updates to this page

Video Analytics

PUBLIC DOMAIN

MORE LIKE THIS

CONTROLLED VOCABULARY KEYWORDS

TAGS

Flag Asset

PP24-2 Biomedical Engineers in Kosare

Video Analytics

PUBLIC DOMAIN

MORE LIKE THIS

CONTROLLED VOCABULARY KEYWORDS

TAGS

Flag Asset

Pacific Partnership 2024-2 End of Mission Wrap Up Video

Press release

Quotes

Quick Facts

Related links

Contact persons