Independent study of NOS hydrographic survey data acquisition

This paper describes an independent study of hydrographic survey data acquisition conducted for the USA National Ocean Service (NOS). The events precipitating the study are discussed, and the contract and reporting structures that ensured objectivity and independence are related. The approach to the study included early involvement by all identified stakeholders. Extensive site visits contributed to the real-world understanding necessary to make the study report useful, widely accepted, and implementable. Conclusions and recommendations are described. Finally, study impacts and follow-on actions being taken by NOS are related. Over the last several years, NOS hydrographic surveying activities have been performed in an environment of declining real dollar budgets, aging vessels, increasing survey backlogs, Inspector General scrutiny, and rapidly evolving technology. About a decade ago, commercial hydrographic survey firms began to look for opportunities to diversify their business bases. One of the opportunities identified was the hydrographic survey needs of the federal government. While substantial surveying activity was underway in the federal government, there was little use of commercial firms by NOS. FY1998 Congressional Appropriations Committee language directed NOS to develop and submit a report describing its long-term plans for satisfying hydrographic survey needs. NOS commissioned the independent study presented in this paper to assist in its response to Congress, and to provide a roadmap for developing plans for future NOS hydrographic programs. Goals of the independent study were: 1) Assessment of relevant factors required for decisions regarding the operational use or possible decommissioning of the three existing government ships supporting NOS hydrographic surveying. 2) Identification, evaluation, and recommendation of methods for maintaining government core capabilities necessary to fulfill oversight, quality assurance, and other inherently government responsibilities in an environment where at least 50% of survey needs are satisfied through contracting with the private sector. 3) Examination of opportunities for technology transfer, collaboration, certification and training programs, and other ways that NOS can act as catalyst for improving hydrography.