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 The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) defines Crowdsourced Bathymetry (CSB) as the collection and sharing of depth measurements from vessels using standard navigation instruments during their normal operations. CSB data provides a valuable, ...

This section is not intended to provide legal advice, but rather to provide examples of some common legal considerations. Please look into your own country’s policies and feel free to investigate international laws and treaties yourself to verify the informati...

The suitability of a vessel for CSB depends on both its onboard hardware and the engagement of its owner or operator. A wide range of equipment brands can be used, which is important because it allows nearly any vessel to participate. As mentioned briefly in ...

Depending on a vessel’s ownership, motivations to participate in CSB may be vastly different. Based on the authors’ collective experiences, this section outlines the common motivations observed among several types of participants. While not exhaustive, these e...

Tools to maintain vessel engagement may include communication and contact, personalization of mission goals, and celebrating the impact of a vessel’s participation. These forms of engagement do require input and effort on behalf of the CSB program managers and...

When initiating engagement with a recruited vessel, it is important to include information about your program motivations and process. Some of these items may include (but are not limited to) the following:  Your program's website Links to equipment checks...

First Generation loggers are characterized by the need to un-install an SD card from the logger and manually plug it into a computer to be able to access and share the data files. One of the most common examples of this logger type is the Yacht Devices Voyage ...

Next Generation loggers are characterized as having more than just an SD card to eject and manually upload data. These loggers currently include the Wireless Inexpensive Bathymetry Logger (WIBL), the Nemo30 logger (with WIBL software), and the Orange Force Mar...

Depending on a CSB program’s needs at a given time, one type of logger may be preferred over another. An in-depth comparison of the logger types currently available as of 2025 can be found here. The purpose of this comparison chart is to help CSB organizations...

At least a week before an installation is scheduled, check that the installation kit and equipment/supplies on hand are sufficient. Check the Installation Kit list to ensure all items are on-hand and have been replenished as needed. Maintain an inventory sprea...

Prior to leaving for a logger installation, ensure that the installation kit contains the following: NMEA 2000 T-splitters (single or 2-way) (single) (2-way)   NMEA 2000 drop cables (1-m or 0.5-m, of the correct connector either 0183, 2000 type N or ...

OFM has provided detailed Installation and Operating Instructions for their Mussel Kits.  A hard copy will also be included in the shipment with the data logger. Be sure to contact Orange Force Marine with the date/time of the installation so they can be avai...

Locate a NMEA 2000 backbone or T-connector with an open port. If a port is available, simply plug in the logger’s Micro Male connector. If all ports are occupied, add a new T-connector to the backbone before connecting the logger. Ensure proper termination:...

Confirm that the NMEA network starts when the vessel is powered on. Remove the backplate/cover of the logger.  Check to make sure the logger has an SD card for data storage and that it’s clicked "in". (disengaged)  (engaged) Place 1-3 desiccant packs into...

When installing data loggers, it is important not only to focus on the data that is being collected, but also the metadata. This allows managers to receive and use the most accurate data possible. Certain logger providers, such as Orange Force Marine, include...

Depending on logger type, CSB data will be transferred at varying intervals. For first-generation loggers like the YDVR, the data transfer timing depends on a few variables. First, the amount of onboard storage (SD card size) will determine how much data can b...

The method of retrieving data varies with the type of logger. For first‑generation loggers, or when using a WIBL in a similar mode, data must be retrieved manually by removing the SD card, copying the files, and uploading them to a secure cloud location. This ...

Getting Set Up You will need to install the following programs to run the WIBL processing scripts: Python 3.14: download here. Choose Customize Installation. Under Advanced Options check the box "Add Python to Environmental Variables." [More detailed instr...

All data submitted to the DCDB need to be in .geojson (preferred) or XYZ format and contain appropriate metadata fields. These requirements are outlined in DCDB guidance documents. For WIBL or YDVR data, you will need to upload data periodically. See the WI...

As of March 2025, a Graphical User Interface (GUI) is being developed to aid in the processing and submission of CSB data. The GUI should lower the barrier to entry for organizations interested in becoming involved with Seabed 2030, but lacking the time or exp...