EPIC will demonstrate early successes by leveraging programs across NOAA that already support Earth system modeling and by building on successful models for community development and scientific innovation. Successful models include, but are not limited to, the Joint Center for Satellite Data Assimilation (JCSDA), Developmental Testbed Center (DTC), Community Earth System Model (CESM), Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF), Cooperative Institutes, Cooperative Science Centers, Model for Prediction Across Scales (MPAS), HYbrid Coordinate Ocean Model (HYCOM), and the Unified Forecast System (UFS).

In particular, EPIC will promote improvements and easier access to the UFS, a community-based, coupled, comprehensive Earth model prediction system. With expanded access and ample support resources, the UFS will be the most attractive model platform for use by other agencies to support their environmental modeling mission needs and NOAA’s operational needs. As elements of this system are implemented, all community members, including other Federal Agencies, academia, and private industry, will be encouraged to use and improve upon the UFS.