Data Management Plan

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has the statutory mandate to collect hydrographic data to support the compilation of nautical charts and for safe navigation and to provide basic data for engineering, scientific and other commercial and industrial activities. Hydrographic survey data consists primarily of water depths but also includes features (rocks, wrecks, etc.), navigational aids, shoreline and some bottom type information. Such data can also be used for storm surge modeling and fish habitat studies and support a variety of maritime functions such as port and harbor maintenance, coastal engineering, and coastal zone management.

Process Steps:

• HSD has traditionally been the organization that acquired the bulk of the hydrographic survey data. Beginning in 1834 hydrographic data was collected by a fleet of survey ships in deep water operations supplemented inshore by field parties. Since the late 1990's many surveys have been by contractors. Through the years this process of data capture has been supplemented by other government agencies like the Corps of Engineers in channel dredging and the United States Coast Guard in Notice to Mariner publications warning of navigation dangers. Private citizens can also contribute data by sending correspondence depicting wrecks, obstructions or shoals.

Price information is available upon request. Pre-payment is possible by check, money order or bankcard. There is a standard handling charge with additional costs for special handling. Orders can be placed by fax, e-mail, regular mail or telephone. Data is available over internet using GEODAS and may be downloaded without charge. Ordering Instructions: Tide and water level data can be obtained through the National Ocean Service Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services. Tide and Tidal Current Predictions Contact: Stephen Lyles Phone: 301-713-2877 extension 176 Email: Stephen.Lyles@noaa.gov Great Lakes Benchmark and Leveling Contact: Jeff Oyler Phone: 757-436-0200 Email: Jeff.Oyler@noaa.gov National Ports Contact: Captain David McFarland Phone: 301-713-2981 extension 127 Email: David McFarland@noaa.gov; Tide and water level data can be obtained through the National Ocean Service's Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services.Tide and Tidal Current Predictions:Contact: Stephen LylesPhone: 301-713-2877 extension 176Email: Stephen.Lyles@noaa.govGreat Lakes Benchmark and Leveling:Contact: Jeff OylerPhone: 757-436-0200Email: Jeff.Oyler@noaa.govNational Ports:Contact: Captain David McFarlandPhone: 301-713-2981 extension 127Email: David McFarland@noaa.gov;