Validation data for coastal hydrodynamic models is rare, but key to calibrate and produce accurate models to study coastal environmental impacts. However, by using unique signals produced by dredgers (non-fishing) vessels and satellite databases we can, in an automated fashion identify opportunities to extract flow data.

While this already carries great value to improve hydrodynamic tools, manually downloading a few tracks of data doesn’t unlock the full potential. Obtaining access to all dredgers (non-fishing) tracks, instead of manually downloading the daily quota, or if possible, the full resolution AIS data. Enables to build a global database supporting environmental modelling research globally.

It would be fantastic to discuss this in further detail and discuss how we could potentially add this as an additional layer to the already extremely valuable GFW platform.