GOSIC Banner
 
Facilitating Access to Global Observing Systems Data and Information

DBCP Program Overview

The ocean data buoy networks of the Drifting Buoy Cooperation Panel (DBCP) are composed of national networks of moored and drifting buoys. Several of these data buoy networks have been identified as elements of the GOOS Integrated Observing System. The Panel also encourages, supports, or initiates development and testing of new observing techniques, quality control procedures, and new data processing systems. It also encourages impact studies based on buoy data.

DBCP Data Access

**Updated March 4, 2009**

Program Management

The Data Buoy Cooperation Panel (DBCP) is an official joint body of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) which was formally established in 1985. It is part of the WMO Marine Programme and is integrated within the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS).

The Panel members are representatives of all members of WMO or member States of IOC which are interested in participating in its activities (presently Australia, Canada, Brazil, India, France, Kenya, Japan, South Korea, Iceland, Ireland, Netherlands, New Zealand, South Africa, Ukraine, United Kingdom and USA).

Terms of Reference: http://www.jcommops.org/dbcp/1dtor.html

Data Management Aspects

The DBCP co-ordinates among the following programs, each with its own data management systems and data flows:

  • The Global Drifter Center (GDC)
  • Data Access Center (DAC)
  • National Drifting Buoy Programs
  • The Responsible National Oceanographic Data Centre (RNODC) for drifting buoys
  • Earth System Research Lab (ESRL)

The most important task of the DBCP is to ensure a satisfactory coordination at the international level of drifting and moored buoy programs to increase the number of buoys deployed, rationalize spatial distributions for most effective data returns, and continually improve data quality.

The needs for both operational and research data for oceanography and meteorology are stressed.

Contact Information

Chairman
David Meldrum
Programme Leader, Technology Development
Scottish Association for Marine Science
Dunstaffnage
OBAN PA37 1QA
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44-1631 559 273
Telefax: +44-1631 559 001
E-mail: dtm@sams.ac.uk