A Geospatial Framework for the Coastal Zone: National Needs for Coastal Mapping and Charting

The coastal zone is of enormous importance to the well-being of the nation, as our lives and economy are inextricably linked to the features and activities that occur within this dynamic region. In order to understand and address the effects of natural and anthropogenic forces in the coastal zone, a holistic multidisciplinary framework is required to account for the interconnectivity of processes within the system. The foundation of this framework is accurate geospatial information—information that is depicted on maps and charts. A Geospatial Framework for the Coastal Zone National Needs identifies and suggests mechanisms for addressing national needs for spatial information in the coastal zone. It identifies high priority needs, evaluates the potential for meeting those needs based on the current level of effort, and suggests steps to increase collaboration and ensure that the nation's need for spatial information in the coastal zone is met in an efficient and timely manner. Table of Contents Front Matter Executive Summary 1 Introduction 2 Coastal Mapping Needs and Activities 3 A Common Coastal Zone Reference Frame: The Seamless Coastal Map and Consistent Shoreline 4 Improving the Quantity and Quality of Coastal Reference Frame Data 5 Access to Coastal Geospatial Data 6 Increasing Coastal Mapping and Charting Efficiency 7 Conclusions and Recommendations 8 References Appendix A: Agency Needs and Activities Appendix B: Committee and Staff Biographies Appendix C: Acronyms