Documentation of the U.S. Geological Survey Oceanographic Time-Series Measurement Database

This collection of oceanographic time-series data is managed by personnel at the USGS/WHCMSC, with assistance from oceanographers and data managers from the other centers. Historically, data stewards who work directly with the data have been trained in use of the processing software to assure consistency in data treatment and the process documentation. The data-processing and quality-control steps required to produce a BBV are usually adequate to assure the data have been properly handled. However, the database manager reviews the data before release to ensure completeness and accuracy. Verification of the metadata associated with the various files is also performed to ensure the data are associated with the correct time and location.

Several backup methods are employed to assure the continuity of access to this data collection. The primary method is bi-weekly local backups of the server. The backup media are stored at onsite and offsite locations. The computer server disks are also mirrored, so there are at least two "live" copies of the data files. The server is on an uninterruptible power supply with sufficient capacity to run the system for 30 minutes, with a generator providing backup power.

Some investigators publish a data report (a USGS open-file report or data series) to describe the experiment, instrumentation used, and present plots of the data collected. Some of the older reports contain data, but it is best to use the data provided online, as this data will include any modifications or updates. Periodic reviews are conducted by the data manager to assure that the files and links are current.

The CF version of the data is incorporated into the Oceanographic Model and Data Portal. This interface is intended to enable users to browse and plot data variables at the site selected, as well as view and evaluate model results and model data comparisons. As new data are incorporated in the database, updates are sent to the several aggregation sites, such as Data.gov, the environmental sensor map on the IOOS Data Portal, and the Global Change Master Directory (GCMD). These sites function as libraries where a user can find data on a topic from a number of sources. Having the links to CMHRP data on these sites is helpful for discoverability but because the data are measurements of one or more variables over time at a single location, it is not very well suited to the geospatial focus of many of the sites. Evaluation of new data clearinghouse sites is ongoing, and as suitable sites are identified, discussions regarding pointing to the time series data are initiated