Hydrographic data are primarily used to update nautical charts, which provide the mariner with the latest information for safe navigation. Aside from providing depth values to be charted, hydrographic data can also be used for tsunami modeling, fisheries research, port and harbor maintenance, coastal zone management, and offshore resource development.

For a brief overview read an essay about the survey department written by a FAIRWEATHER summer intern.

Data Acquisition and Processing
Hydrographic data is collected using the ship and/or small boats. After data is collected, hydrographic survey techs and junior officers process the data.

	Multibeam Echosounder		Horizontal Control
	Shoreline Verification		Vertical Control (Tides)
	Bottom Samples		Data Processing

Adding data to charts
Hydrographic survey data, acquired by NOAA field parties and contractors for the west coast and Alaska, go to Pacific Hydrographic Branch for processing and certification. These data are then used by branch personnel to compile cartographic revisions to NOAA nautical charts.

• ENCs (Electronic Navigational Charts)
• RNCs (Raster Navigational Charts)

Flexible Use Platform
The FAIRWATHER was designed as a flexible use platform. Other groups and agencies use the FAIRWEATHER for scientific studies. The ship has been involved in studies of fish habitats and populations, as well as the retrieval of a tsunami DART buoy.

• FOCI Fisheries Website
• NOAA Tsunami Buoy Website