OceanGrafix Releases White Paper
"The Creation of Accurate, Precise Charts: Understanding U.S. Nautical Chart Updates and Their Distribution" is the title of a newly released white paper that highlights the importance of nautical charts. The paper explains how nautical charts are made, why recreational boaters should carry charts and how easy it can be to access chart updates.
Captain John Lowell, director of NOAA's Office of Coast Survey, supports the white paper's educational theme and echoes the need for up-to-date nautical charts. "Recreational boaters, unlike commercial mariners, are not required to carry nautical charts. But as more demands are put on our waterways, busy coasts mean more risk for accidents." Lowell adds, "By using charts that are current, people have a better chance of avoiding potential groundings and other accidents."
The white paper also provides useful knowledge on a variety of topics including:
- How natural and manmade actions change waterways
- How cartographic changes are discovered
- When and how chart updates are incorporated and distributed
- Accident statistics and what they mean
- What you can do to remain safe on the water