Ocean scientists from the United States academic research community will be supported to participate in activities of the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) which are of special interest to this community and the ocean science programs in which it is involved. These ICES activities will include the annual ICES Statutory Meeting; meetings of ICES Working Groups; and scientific workshops and planning meetings. During the first year of this award, U.S. scientists will be supported to participate in meetings of ICES Working Groups on shelf hydrography; marine chemistry; benthic ecology; multi-species models; larval fish ecology; biological effects of environmental changes; and phytoplankton management.