Barack Obama taps Oregon State's Dr. Jane Lubchenco to take over NOAA

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) one of the federal government's most important agencies, will soon be led by a renowned marine biologist who has worked at Oregon State University for three decades:

Lubchenco, a conservationist who has devoted much of her career to encouraging scientists to become more engaged in public policy debates, is also a vocal proponent of curbing greenhouse gases linked to global warming. The transition team could not be reached for comment, but several sources confirmed today that Lubchenco had been picked and was headed to Chicago for the upcoming announcement.

The appointment marks a shift for NOAA, which oversees marine issues as well as much of government's climate work. Lubchenco has criticized the agency in the past for not doing enough to curb overfishing.

Dr. Lubchenco is an outstanding choice for NOAA Administrator. We at the Northwest Progressive Institute commend President-elect Barack Obama for tapping one of the Pacific Northwest's brightest and most respected scientists for this important job. OSU's loss will be America's gain.

Daily Kos user strobusguy nicely sums up our reaction to this appointment:

Her appointment will help bring the very best minds we have to the issues of marine conservation and climate change. She is one who understands the need for integrated solutions, and for clear communication links between the scientific world, policy-makers, the media, and the public. She will also make the job of reclaiming scientific integrity in the Obama administration a high priority.

And The Oregonian observes:

Lubchenco would be the first woman to head the prominent science agency, which boasts an annual budget of about $4 billion. NOAA encompasses about half the workforce and budget of the Department of Commerce. Its divisions conduct the nation's study of oceans, weather and global warming.

This is by far one of the best appointments President-elect Obama has announced so far. (His choice for science advisor is also a great pick).

We look forward to toasting the future of NOAA when Dr. Lubchenco is confirmed by the United States Senate and officially becomes its new leader.