National Ocean Economics Program

Accessible Data for a Sustainable Coastal and Ocean Economy

The National Ocean Economics Program (NOEP) provides accessible and broadly relevant economic and social information about U.S. ocean and coastal zones. Data are freely available and have been used by resource managers, scientists, and policymakers around the world across an array of economic sectors.

Initially supported with funding from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Lokar Foundation, NOEP was created in 1999. It was the first database of its kind in the U.S., providing reliable and standardized measurements on the value of the blue economy. In 2025, Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences took over management of NOEP in order to maintain this critical asset as a public resource.

This information system is essential for understanding changes in marine and coastal environments, highlighting the impacts of human activity, and supporting policies for the sustainable and productive use of ocean resources.

Looking Forward

Scientists at our Tandy Center for Ocean Forecasting are working to expand the possibilities of NOEP by incorporating environmental data and leveraging new computational tools. This integrated database will vastly expand understanding of coastal and ocean ecosystems, inform ocean forecasting efforts, and create new pathways for sustainable economic growth.

Harnessing the institute’s advanced data science capabilities, deep insight into the blue economy, and world-class ocean science expertise, NOEP stands to become an essential tool for monitoring ocean health and economic opportunities for Maine, our nation, and beyond.

For questions or to collaborate with our research team, please contact Nick Record, senior research scientist.

Resources

• NOEP Database
• Tandy Center for Ocean Forecasting