The Cooperative Charting Program of the United States Power Squadrons is conducted in close collaboration with the Marine Chart Division, National Ocean Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce. The program is a major public service of the United States Power Squadrons.

Under it, members supply information to the Marine Chart Division of NOS/NOAA leading to corrections to nautical charts, small craft charts, Coast Pilot publications and Small Craft Facilities. We supply depth survey data, range status and tidal current surveys. The Adopt-A-Chart subprogram provides for individual squadrons to assume responsibility to keep a chart or a portion of a chart in their local boating area up to date and get recognition on new editions for their work. We have been told that the Cooperative Charting Program is recognized as the most effective user-participation program in all of the Federal services.

Richmond Sail and Power Squadron participate in this USPS program by holding several one-day on the water surveys between May and October. We focus on the area shown on NOAA Chart 12235, Rappahannock River Entrance which covers the bay coastal area and tributaries between The Great Wicomico River in the north and Piankatank River & Gwynns Island area in the South. Nautical survey activities combine a fun day with friends gathering information needed by chart makers, is especially suitable for smaller powerboats with shallow draft. It is an especially good activity for newer squadron members to participate in. We have experienced coop charting experts to guide new interested members.  For more information also visit USPS Cooperative Charting.

Our contact for Co-Op Charting is Ernie Burnett, who can be reached via Coop Charting Information.