Cooperative Charting Program of the United States Power Squadrons is conducted in close cooperation with United States Army Corps of Engineers, the United States Coast Guard and NOAA’s National Geodetic Survey Division (NGSD). The Program continues to be a major public service of USPS.  As in the past, members supply important information to the above agencies so updates can be made to nautical charts and the National Survey Marker databases. This initiative involves two Programs.

 

The Aid-To-Navigation and Bridge Inspection Program support the USACE and Coast Guard in assuring waterways are properly marked and maintained.

 

The Geodetic Program is where members help to verify the accuracy of reference points established on the surface of the earth by local, state, and national agencies. 

 

USPS have been complimented by government leadership that the Cooperative Charting Program is recognized as the most effective user-participation program in all of the Federal Services. 

 

At this time, the Annapolis Sail and Power Squadron’s is actively involved in the Aid-To-Navigation Program which centers around inspecting and verifying the local aids to navigation (ATON).  ASPS efforts currently are focused on the South, Severn and Magothy Rivers and creeks between these Rivers.  See USCG Charts #12270 and #12282

 

Performing this civic duty ensures that the ATONs in our local area are in fact functioning and are located where mariners expect them.  These observations are recorded by the USPS and forwarded to appropriate government authorities.  In the case where discrepancies are found, a report is also sent to the USCG for remediation.

 

Are you our on your boat regularly?  Would you be interested in participating in this valuable public service?  If so, please reach out to the ASPS Cooperative Charting Program Chairperson