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An independent federal agency that advises the President and Congress on domestic and international Arctic research.

An independent federal agency that advises the President and Congress on domestic and international Arctic research.

In the News

November 26, 2024

President Biden Appoints Larry Mayer to USARC and Designates Him Chairperson

Professor Mayer, the founding director of the Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping at the University of New Hampshire and the co-director of the NOAA/UNH Joint Hydrographic Center, will lead the commission’s work in advancing Arctic research in the nation’s interest.
 > Announcement

October 1, 2024

USARC Chair Mike Sfraga Resigns from Commission to Become the US’s first Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs

Sfraga will lead and coordinate the advancement of U.S. interests in the Arctic related to safety and security, sustainable economic growth, and strengthening cooperation among Arctic States to perpetuate and defend the rules-based order in the region.

July 9, 2024

Joint Statement by the US Arctic Research Commission and Polar Knowledge Canada

Outcomes from discussions and agreements in a joint meeting of the USARC and POLAR in Cambridge Bay, Nunavut, Canada on June 4 and 5, 2024. > Joint Statement

May 15, 2024

President Biden Reappoints Sfraga, Richter-Menge, and Cravalho to a Second Term

Today, President Biden reappointed Drs. Mike Sfraga and Jacqueline Richter-Menge and Ms. Elizabeth Ann (Qaulluq) Cravalho to a second term on the US Arctic Research Commission. Their new term will expire on February 26, 2028.

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Arctic Renewable Energy Working Group

To benefit Arctic communities by identifying and addressing critical renewable energy and energy efficiency research needs.

Alaska Rural Water and Sanitation Working Group

To maximize the health benefits of in-home running water and sanitation services in rural Alaska.

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Goals and Objectives for Arctic Research

Read the 2023–2024 report outlining recommended scientific research goals and objectives for the Arctic.

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The Arctic Scientific Cooperation Agreement

Facilitating access by scientists of the Arctic governments to Arctic areas, research infrastructure, and data.

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