NOAA's Office of Coast Survey ensures safe, efficient and environmentally sound marine transportation that brings an uninterrupted flow of people and goods into and out of our nation's ports.

The foundation of the United States economy is the Marine Transportation System--America's network of oceans, rivers, canals, locks and dams. Shipping on these "marine highways" moves people and cargo around the country, and connects us to the global marketplace for international trade and affordable goods. The Office of Coast Survey is responsible for producing the suite of nautical charts that covers the coastal waters of the U.S. and its territories.