The Coast Survey International Program

Office of Coast Survey products and services have an inherently international dimension. Beginning with an Act signed in 1807 by President Thomas Jefferson, Coast Survey became the nation's chartmaker in 1832. More than 200 years later, the U.S. depends upon maritime trade and economic activity associated with the use of coastal waters and resources. This trade supports the 1.3 billion metric tons of cargo valued at $1.8 trillion coming in and out of U.S. ports every year. The Coast Survey International Program and Plan builds upon Coast Survey's core strengths, capacities, and directions as a global leader in hydrography.