OceansMap – A Data Integration and Web-based Model Validation Tool for NOAA CO-OPS

Abstract

MARACOOS OceansMap is a dynamic data visualization tool integrating near real-time observational assets and model forecasts that contribute to ocean monitoring. OceansMap is the flagship ocean data portal of MARACOOS, one of the eleven US IOOS regional associations that are certified by the federal government for the quality of the data they serve. By working together, MARACOOS, RPS Group, NOAA CO-OPS, WaveForce Technologies, and other partners developed OceansMap to enable stakeholders, partners, and the public free and open access to high quality data and information products. Initially the intention was to provide coverage for the Mid-Atlantic region from Cape Cod, MA to Cape Hatteras, NC, the product has expanded coverage to all US coastal waters including the Great Lakes. OceansMap makes data visualization intuitive and quick for its users through several powerful tools. The data validation tool allows the user to compare model vs observed data for a specific area at a specific time, creating a level of confidence in future model forecasts. The multivariant traffic light tool allows the user to define a set of thresholds for specific environmental conditions which creates a spatial layer on the map showing the areas where the thresholds were met at the time defined. The virtual station tool allows the user to set, customize, and save locations anywhere on the map marked by a pin to quickly access ocean data at specific locations of interest. The compare mode tool populates a slider on the map allowing the user to visualize two (or more) spatial layers at the same time by moving the slider across the screen. This is powerful for comparing two different data parameters, two different models of the same data parameter, the same layer at different points in time, or the same layer at two different elevations. The permalink tool allows the user to create a shareable URL that links to a specific active viewpoint of OceansMap. This is powerful when sharing data between colleagues, saving an OceansMap view to access anytime with 1-click, or embedding a clickable link into a report or website. The user also can change the basemap, create, import, and export custom shape layers on the map, save or print a screenshot of the active data on the map, hover over an area to quickly see the data at the current time, measure distances on the map, visualize 3D data at different depths or elevations, change the units, and customize the date and time of the time slider on the map. To further improve data useability, the next generation of MARACOOS OceansMap has been created in close collaboration with NOAA CO-OPS, and with significant input from stakeholders and partners working within the maritime sector, offshore wind development, and the National Weather Service’s regional Weather Forecast Offices. By engaging users across the region to provide input and feedback on OceansMap, we have reduced barriers to data use by providing a more intuitive, tailored, and accessible interface that focuses on turning data into insight. OceansMap is mobile-friendly, enhancing stakeholders’ ability to prepare, manage, and respond to changing conditions from anywhere to protect lives and property, public and environmental health, jobs and our economy, and the overall well-being of the 79 million people residing in the Mid-Atlantic region and all residents and users of the US coast.