Scientists from the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) and the Coastal Services Center recently recorded underwater video and collected sonar data off Kwajalein Atoll in the Republic of the Marshall Islands to produce bathymetry estimates and support mapping of coral reef communities in the region. Additionally, NCCOS will be using these data to produce map products in support of a larger three-year cooperative effort with the U.S. Geological Survey and the University of Hawaii to examine the potential impacts of increased severity and frequency of wave overwash events on groundwater resources of the atoll. This information is needed by the Department of Defense (DoD) to develop climate-change adaptation plans for DoD infrastructure. Funding for the study was provided by the Department of Defense's Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program.

For more information, contact Don.Field@noaa.gov or Greg.Piniak@noaa.gov.