Abstract
Ocean wave information relies on the collection of oceanographic and meteorological data, analysis and interpretation of the data, and dissemination of the resulting information products. These products can range from statistical tables and charts to bulletins and technical reports. Operational oceanography is distinct in that the science is focused on the development of information products that are used for decision making. Ocean wave conditions are a major constituent in any operational plan and are important to support safe maritime activities such as navigation, loading ships, fishing, recreation, mineral extraction, power generation, and military exercises. This workshop goes beyond consideration of descriptive wave products such as spectra from buoys, hindcasts from historical weather records, and forecasts from wave models. It provides the opportunity for participants to share their procedures for preparing and distributing wave information products; workshop attendees will discuss how their products are actually used to support decision making.
Scientists, engineers, and managers have been invited to present ideas, research results, case studies, work in progress, and system demonstrations related to the use of wave buoys, models, and information to support operations. Discussions will highlight how wave information is used to make decisions such as the issuance of warnings to mariners, evacuation of coastal areas, routing of ships into favorable seaways, and efficient deployment of marine spill response equipment. This workshop provides a forum for operational oceanographers to stimulate discussion, provide new insights, and provide feedback for focused experiments.
Workshop Objectives:
(1) Discuss technologies and applications that provide information on ocean waves.
(2) Improve the exchange of information on state-of-the-art wave measuring and modeling capabilities through cross-fertilization by participants of diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise.
(3) Share information on projects using ocean wave measurements to illustrate the kinds of problems and solutions encountered in real world oceanography.