Mapping Coordination and Spatial Prioritization

Providing accurate geospatial map products to clients is one of NCCOS's principal objectives, but doing so requires having a thorough understanding of the target users' mapping requirements, and strong coordination among data providers and users. NCCOS demonstrates expertise in building inventories and catalogs of existing mapping data to improve interagency coordination efforts; selecting and operating research vessels, platforms, and sensors; and collecting seafloor and water column data.

Mapping Coordination

NCCOS has been on the forefront of coordinating regional mapping efforts. Our partnerships with federal and non-federal organizations have enabled significant leveraging of resources to fill data gaps to address multiple organizational and management goals. NCCOS has developed a robust network of partners throughout the U.S. to provide expertise in understanding the uses, collection, and application of mapping data to support a variety of coastal management and conservation issues.

Seafloor Characterization of the U.S. Caribbean

Benthic Habitat Mapping of Florida Coral Reef Ecosystems to Support Reef Conservation and Management

Spatial Prioritization

Determining the most significant areas to map can be challenging. NCCOS has designed a participatory spatial prioritization process to provide critical information on “where” and “why” mapping data are needed and to promote mapping coordination, planning, and collaboration among multiple agencies. Planning between agencies and their partners will allow them to “map once, use many times,” ultimately reducing redundant efforts and maximizing the efficient use of resources.