St Helena Government (SHG) has taken a significant step towards strengthening its marine surveying capabilities thanks to borrowed equipment and two weeks of specialist training supported by the UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO).
The training was led by Nicolay Larsen from Maritime Robotics, the company that built SHG’s Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV), and Matt King, a hydrographic surveying expert working with the UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO). Together, they gave practical, hands-on training on how to use the survey equipment and how to collect, process and manage the information gathered from marine surveys.
Staff from the Geographical Information Systems (GIS), Marine and Meteorological sections took part in the training. They were chosen because of their experience in surveying, knowledge of the marine environment, and the ways they could use hydrographic survey data in their work. Participants gained valuable skills through a combination of classroom learning and field-based exercises.
Hydrographic surveying plays a vital role in supporting safe navigation by providing accurate information on seabed characteristics, coastal features and underwater hazards. In addition, the data collected can support environmental monitoring, habitat mapping and a greater understanding of changes within St Helena’s marine environment over time.
The programme helps St Helena build its ability to map and understand local waters, making navigation safer for vessels. It will also improve access to important marine information and support activities such as harbour operations, marine conservation, and other work at sea around the island. These reflect the principles contained within the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), Chapter V, Regulation 9
The training was well received by all participants, who now have a solid foundation from which to begin using the equipment for operational surveys. SHG would also like to thank the Sea Rescue Service and Port Authority for their support during the training, which contributed significantly to its success.
SHG is grateful to UKHO for procuring and facilitating this specialist training opportunity. This investment in local knowledge and skills marks an important milestone in building sustainable hydrographic survey capacity on St Helena.
Devlin Yon, Head of Geomatic Services, said:
“This training represents a significant milestone in the development of hydrographic surveying capability on St Helena. By bringing together colleagues from across government and providing hands-on experience with modern survey technology, we are building the foundations for a sustainable, locally managed hydrographic programme. We are extremely grateful to UKHO, Maritime Robotics and all those involved in delivering and supporting the training. The skills gained will help improve our understanding of the marine environment and support safer navigation around St Helena’s waters.”
Maritime Robotics USV Otter being lowered into the water with Sea Rescue on standby for assistance.
Data collected by the USV in relation to Ruperts Jetty schematics.
Photo with the GIS Staff, Left to Right – Ryan Benjamin, Jamie Phillips, Devlin Yon, Matt King (Hydrographic Surveyor), Joelle Henry and Luke Bargo.
#StHelena #UKHydrographicOffice #UKHO #HydrographicSurveying #MarineSurveying