FROM CAM newlsetter
Electronic Navigation Charts (ENCs)
On August 9, 2004 the President signed the Coast Guard
and Maritime Transportation Act of 2004. Section 410 of
the law mandates commercial vessels over 65 ft in length
and towing vessels over 26 ft carry electronic charts in
U.S. waters. Over 3 million free Internet down loads of
420 ENCs have occurred since 2001. Over 40 major ports
are now available on ENCs and connecting coverage
between them will be available by 2007. Integration of the
US Coast Pilot is underway albeit there are some software
challenges between data, graphics and text. There is
an on-going partnership between USCG and USACE
complimented by a USCG/OCS/CO-OPS AIS
Demonstration Project that will enhance safety in US
waters.