Organizations Maximize Collection of Hydrographic Data
The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and Petroleum Geo-Services (PGS) of Norway have recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to facilitate the future exchange of bathymetric data. PGS undertakes seismic data surveys for oil and gas exploration companies to assist them in finding and exploiting offshore hydrocarbon reserves. During such seismic data surveys, PGS records, among other things, water depth data.
The MoU provides a framework for a continuing liaison between the IHO and PGS to facilitate the efficient and effective use of collected hydrographic data. Both parties will benefit from regular contact in order to address matters of common interest and to inform each other of its activities that may be relevant and to invite representation from the other where it is agreed that it would be appropriate.
Efficient Collection of Hydrographic Data
Both organizations intend to identify opportunities to maximize and promote the efficient collection of hydrographic data by furthering the understanding of data requirements, data holdings and future collection plans. Where entitled to do so, PGS will investigate supplying data from seabed mapping and other relevant sources to the IHO Data Centre for Digital Bathymetry (DCDB) where IHO Member States may access it in support of their national and international projects. PGS anticipates accessing the data archived at DCDB to support its projects.
It is intended to upload these comments to the IHO News section of the IHO website and the IHO LinkedIn site to allow the widest distribution of this important progress, with the hope that others may follow this example.
