Measuring water depths dates back to ancient times, but it is the simple rulers and lead lines the surveyors of the 1800s used that were the springboard to the sophisticated mapping technologies used today.

NOAA released an interesting history on how the methods and techniques have changed over time since the rope and poles of our early seamen. You can read Underwater Frontiers: A Brief History of Seafloor Mapping  here.  

Coast Pilot is a series of nautical books containing information that it is difficult to portray on a navigational chart such as bridge clearances, channel descriptions , and tide and water levels. 

Do you still have a summer vacation coming up? Avoid these beach hazards to help ensure your time away is as fun-filled as possible.