V1, 7/18/05 29 requiring new curriculum adoption and in-service education will only occur if there is an infusion of external dollars.  A significant enhancement of ocean literacy cannot be achieved through a program design relying on persuasion or boot-strapping.  The potential of ocean observing to connect with math and science standards throughout the SEACOOS domain is great, but it requires initial investment before formal institutionalization can occur.  A consideration of total costs needs to be made before launching into a major educational undertaking. The definition of the Education programming is too limited considering the broad societal mandate for ocean observing. Therefore educational programming for future business managers/leaders to familiarize them with the potential benefits of incorporating environmental information into business planning and operations should be developed.   “Cradle to grave planning for operations is smart business management. Consider the development of mid-career, undergraduate/graduate courses on the use of environmental information for students matriculated in Colleges of Business and Economics. Caveat:  If SEACOOS intends to remain an observing system in support of the research community, then the need to invest in outreach is unnecessary.  However, if SEACOOS intends to evolve into the RCOOS of the Southeast, it must place a higher priority on its connectivity to its diverse client base.  Outreach and technology transfer are essential components to the evolution and survivability of the RCOOS.