Explanation of the terms "Hydrographer" and "Hydrography"
In the early 1930s, a significant debate unfolded at the International Hydrographic Conference, leading to a redefinition of the term 'Hydrography'. The question had first been raised at the 1932 Conference, resulting in the Bureau being instructed to examine the question of the definition of the words 'Hydrographer' and 'Hydrography'.
The first President of the Directing Committee, Admiral Sir John PARRY, took it upon himself to define the meaning of Hydrography. He wrote an article in the first volume of the Hydrographic Review, outlining his views. The article proposed that Hydrography must include all subjects listed under Categories A and B, and may include those under C.
The debate was far from straightforward, with opinions differing as to whether the term Hydrographer refers only to the Head of the Hydrographic Service or to all those who have specialized in hydrography. The alternative definitions of Hydrography included various interpretations, such as the science of measuring Oceans, Seas, Lakes, Rivers and other waters with their marginal land areas for safe Navigation, or the science of determining and publishing data concerning the true configuration of the Earth, as far as useful to Navigation.
Despite the differences, a majority of the States Members appeared to be in favor of the more embracive term that refers to all those who have specialized in hydrography. The term Hydrography was proposed to include the study of Tides, Tidal Streams and Currents, also of Oceanography and Meteorology so far as they affect Navigation.
The replies to Circular Letter No. 1-H of 1933 were grouped under three categories: those common to all Services, those common to the majority, and those to certain States only. The Directing Committee later decided to publish comments from the States Members on the proposed definitions of Hydrography and Hydrographer in the Hydrographic Review or the International Hydrographic Bulletin.
The accepted definition of Hydrography, as formalized during the International Hydrographic Conferences held between 1926 and 1932 and published in the Hydrographic Review, is generally understood as:
Hydrography is the science of measurement and description of the physical features of oceans, seas, coastal areas, lakes, and rivers, as well as with the prediction of their change over time, primarily for the purpose of navigation and safe maritime operations.
This definition emphasizes the collection and provision of data related to depths, tides, currents, shoreline details, and hazards to navigation. The focus is on producing nautical charts and publications that ensure the safety of shipping and maritime activities.
The International Hydrographic Bureau, which was established as a result of the London Conference of 1919, later adopted and refined this definition to underpin its global hydrographic standards and guidelines. Hydrography, as defined, encompasses a science particularly affecting the sea, but it is impossible to separate it from Geodesy and certain sections of Oceanography.
The Heads of the Hydrographic Services work in close collaboration with various offices, including Meteorological Offices, Lighthouse and Buoyage Authorities, Nautical Almanac Offices, and National or State Observatories. The development of Air Navigation is closely allied to Sea Navigation and is of the utmost importance to Hydrography.
The duties of the Heads of the Hydrographic Services include advising on Scientific Expeditions, Dredging questions, Jurisdiction, and the improvement of Ports and River Estuaries. The term Hydrographer is proposed to be restricted to the Head of the Hydrographic Office only, and the officers working under him who have specialized in Hydrography should be termed Marine Surveyors or Hydrographic Engineers.
The manuscript, titled "Definition of the words 'Hydrographer' and 'Hydrography'", was written by J. D. Nares and published in volume 11, issue 1 of the Hydrographic Review. The paper provides a comprehensive overview of the historical debates and decisions surrounding the definition of Hydrography, offering a valuable insight into the evolution of this critical field.
- With the accepted definition of Hydrography established, the focus shifts towards its application in the realm of health and wellness, particularly in medical-conditions that affect seafarers, as technology advances in wearable health monitors for marine environments.
- The extensive study of hydrography encompasses not only geography and oceanography but also technology, as the field continues to influence other sectors like health-and-wellness, with the rise of integrated smart ports that leverage data from autonomous vehicles, IoT devices, and artificial intelligence.
