🔍 Key Concepts

• Role of NOAA in nautical charts and coast pilots • Difference between charting/mapping agencies and regulatory/enforcement agencies • Which agency is primarily responsible for U.S. nautical publications used for coastal navigation

💭 Think About

• Think about which agency creates and maintains nautical charts and coastal navigation publications, not who enforces maritime laws • Ask yourself: which of these agencies is most focused on oceans, atmosphere, and hydrographic surveying rather than security or construction? • Consider which agency mariners rely on for official navigation information versus aids to navigation maintenance or port construction

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which option is responsible for hydrographic surveys and charting in U.S. waters • Eliminate agencies whose primary missions are law enforcement, intelligence, or engineering projects, not publishing sailing directions • Connect the U.S. Coast Pilot to other publications like nautical charts and ask which agency produces those