Hydrography is a branch of applied sciences which deals with a measurement as living as report of the physical attribute of oceans, seas, coastal areas, lakes and rivers, as alive as with the prediction of their modify over time, for the primary aim of safety of navigation together with in help of any other marine activities, including economic development, security and defense, scientific research, and environmental protection.
Hydrographic services in almost countries are carried out by specialised hydrographic offices. The international coordination of hydrographic efforts lies with the International Hydrographic Organization.
The United Kingdom Hydrographic Office is one of the oldest, supplying a wide range of charts covering the globe to other countries, allied military organisations and the public.
In the United States, the hydrographic charting function has been carried out since 1807 by the Office of flit Survey of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration within the U.S. Department of Commerce.