WORLD HYDROGRAPHY DAY – PROPOSED THEME FOR 2016

IHB File No. S1/1900/A CIRCULAR LETTER 71/2015 22 September 2015 WORLD HYDROGRAPHY DAY – PROPOSED THEME FOR 2016 References: A. IHO CL 03/2015 dated 08 January - Theme for World Hydrography Day 2015 B. IHO CL 28/2015 dated 23 March - Background Briefing Note for World Hydrography Day 2015 Dear Hydrographer, 1. As announced in Reference A, the theme of World Hydrography Day (WHD) 2015 was “Our seas and waterways – yet to be fully charted and explored”. This theme was intended to highlight the significant shortfall in useful bathymetric data for the world’s seas, oceans and navigable waterways. 2. The following IHO Member States have reported hosting events in connection with World Hydrography Day: Brazil, Bangladesh, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Japan, Mauritius, New Zealand, Peru and USA. Reports are available at: www.iho.int > Home> About IHO > World Hydrography Day > WHD 2015 Celebrations around the world. Other Member States have programmed events for later in the year. As announced in Reference B, World Hydrography Day was celebrated in Monaco with a reception on board the Japan Coast Guard training vessel Kojima on 30 June. Kojima was berthed in Monaco’s main harbour, Port Hercule. Local dignitaries, government and diplomatic representatives, and other invited guests attended the reception and were honoured by the presence of His Serene Highness Prince Albert of Monaco. The IHO Bulletin report on WHD celebrations is available at: www.iho.int > 2015 Latest News > June. Proposed theme for World Hydrography Day 2016 3. Taking into account the discussions at the 5th Extraordinary International Hydrographic Conference and noting the focus on the importance of hydrographic information as a fundamental enabler for all human activities in, on or under the sea, the Directing Committee proposes the following theme for WHD 2016 : “Hydrography – the key to well-managed seas” 4. The theme will enable all stakeholders involved in hydrography to highlight the significance and importance of their particular activities which could include, but is not limited to, the support of safety of navigation, protection of the marine environment, coastal zone management, marine spatial data infrastructures, defence, resource exploration, and all other components of the blue economy. 5. The Directing Committee invites Member States to consider the proposed theme for WHD 2016 “Hydrography – the key to well-managed seas” - and to provide their comments, if any, to the IHB no later than 02 November 2015. The Directing Committee would also welcome any comments and suggestions aimed at improving the impact and the organization of annual WHD celebrations. On behalf of the Directing Committee Yours sincerely, Robert WARD President