Collections inventory for the U.S. Geological Survey Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Samples Repository (ver. 2.0, September 2023)

Frequently anticipated questions:

• What does this data set describe?
  1. How might this data set be cited?
  2. What geographic area does the data set cover?
  3. What does it look like?
  4. Does the data set describe conditions during a particular time period?
  5. What is the general form of this data set?
  6. How does the data set represent geographic features?
  7. How does the data set describe geographic features?
• Who produced the data set?
  1. Who are the originators of the data set?
  2. Who also contributed to the data set?
  3. To whom should users address questions about the data?
• Why was the data set created?
• How was the data set created?
  1. From what previous works were the data drawn?
  2. How were the data generated, processed, and modified?
  3. What similar or related data should the user be aware of?
• How reliable are the data; what problems remain in the data set?
  1. How well have the observations been checked?
  2. How accurate are the geographic locations?
  3. How accurate are the heights or depths?
  4. Where are the gaps in the data? What is missing?
  5. How consistent are the relationships among the data, including topology?
• How can someone get a copy of the data set?
  1. Are there legal restrictions on access or use of the data?
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• Who wrote the metadata?

What does this data set describe?

1. How might this data set be cited?
   Buczkowski, Brian J., Cross, VeeAnn A., and Schweitzer, Peter N., 2018, Collections inventory for the U.S. Geological Survey Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Samples Repository (ver. 2.0, September 2023): data release DOI:10.5066/F7319TT0, U.S. Geological Survey, Reston, VA.

   Online Links:

   • https://doi.org/10.5066/F7319TT0

   Other_Citation_Details:

   Suggested citation: Buczkowski, B.J., Cross, V.A., and Schweitzer, P.N., 2018, Collections inventory for the U.S. Geological Survey Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Samples Repository (ver. 2.0, September 2023): U.S. Geological Survey data release, https://doi.org/10.5066/F7319TT0.

2. What geographic area does the data set cover?

   West_Bounding_Coordinate: -161.3465
   East_Bounding_Coordinate: -63.722157
   North_Bounding_Coordinate: 81.40006
   South_Bounding_Coordinate: 18.093148
   

3. What does it look like?
4. Does the data set describe conditions during a particular time period?

   Calendar_Date: 2023

   Currentness_Reference:

   Publication date.

5. What is the general form of this data set?

   Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: vector digital data
   

6. How does the data set represent geographic features?
   1. How are geographic features stored in the data set?
      This is a Point data set. It contains the following vector data types (SDTS terminology):
      • point (13148)
   2. What coordinate system is used to represent geographic features?
      Horizontal positions are specified in geographic coordinates, that is, latitude and longitude. Latitudes are given to the nearest 0.000001. Longitudes are given to the nearest 0.000001. Latitude and longitude values are specified in Decimal degrees. The horizontal datum used is D_WGS_1984.
      The ellipsoid used is WGS_1984.
      The semi-major axis of the ellipsoid used is 6378137.000000.
      The flattening of the ellipsoid used is 1/298.257224.
      

      Vertical_Coordinate_System_Definition:

      Depth_System_Definition:

      Depth_Datum_Name: Local surface
      Depth_Resolution: 9999
      Depth_Distance_Units: meters
      Depth_Encoding_Method: Explicit depth coordinate included with horizontal coordinates
      

7. How does the data set describe geographic features?

   cores

   Cylindrical samples of unconsolidated sediment or rock, collected vertically through the surface of the sea floor or lake floor and into the substrate beneath. Dataset contains 1308 data records. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   record_id

   Unique identifier of the sample assigned by the collections inventory curator. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   sample_id

   The identification value assigned to the sample at the time of collection. This varies from field activity to field activity and the ID can contain any combination of letters and numbers. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   section_no

   This field indicates the section number from a subdivided core, as well as the total number of sections of the core. For example, "2 of 6". Section numbers are sequential. A "?" for the total number of sections indicates that the total number of sections that comprise the entire core is not known. For example, "2 of ?". A blank indicates the core has not been sectioned. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   serial_no

   The serial number assigned to the dataset field activity from which the sample belongs. This value is in the format YYYY-XXX-FA where YYYY is the year, XXX is the number assigned to the activity within the year, and FA indicates Field Activity. To view additional information associated with the field activity in CMGDS, enter the URL https://cmgds.marine.usgs.gov/fan_info.php?fan=YYYY-XXX-FA (where YYYY is the year, XXX is the number assigned to the activity within the year, and FA indicates Field Activity) into a web browser. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   dev_code

   Abbreviated code for the collection device of the sample. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Value	Definition
   ALP	Alpine piston core
   APC	Alvin push core
   BC	Box core.
   DOP	Diver-operated push core
   EPC	Ewing piston core
   FFC	Free-fall core
   GC	Gravity core
   GHF	Gravity heat flow core
   GPC	Giant piston core
   HDC	Hydraulically-damped slow core
   HPC	Hydroplastic core
   HSC	Hydrostatic core
   PHC	Push core
   PC	Piston core
   SHC	Slide hammer core
   TC	Trigger-weight core
   VBC	Vegimatic box core
   VC	Vibracore
   RD	Rotary drill
   PPC	Portable piston core

   top_interv

   Top of sampled interval, measured in centimeters from the top of the sample. A value of -9999 indicates a value of the top_interv is either not applicable or unknown. A value of -8888 indicates the sample came from a core catcher. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	0
   Maximum:	1950
   Units:	centimeters

   bot_interv

   Bottom of sampled interval, measured in centimeters from the top of the sample. A value of -9999 indicates a value of the bottom interval is either not applicable or unknown. A value of -8888 indicates the sample came from a core catcher. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	0
   Maximum:	2070
   Units:	centimeters

   lat_dd

   Latitude decimal degrees of the sample location. The horizontal datum associated with latitude fix varies depending on the year and navigation acquisition system. A value of -9999 indicates the latitude of the sample is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	18.161597
   Maximum:	42.7756083
   Units:	decimal degrees

   lon_dd

   Longitude decimal degrees of the sample location. The horizontal datum associated with longitude fix varies depending on the year and navigation acquisition system. A value of -9999 indicates a value of the longitude is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	-76.4865
   Maximum:	-63.8747
   Units:	decimal degrees

   loc_source

   The source of the sample's latitude and longitude values. A blank value indicates either the source is unknown, or the location of the sample is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Value	Definition
   Ship's DGPS	Differential Global Positioning System maintained and operated by platform or other vessel from which the navigation and coordinates were derived.
   DGPS	Differential Global Positioning System maintained and operated by the USGS WHCMSC.
   Loran C	Hyperbolic radio navigation system which determines position by listening to low frequency radio signals transmitted by fixed land-based radio beacons.
   Handheld GPS	Global Positioning System which is received by a handheld GPS.
   Trackmap	Analog trackchart documenting the positions of the samples when they were collected which has been digitized, georeferenced and the location coordinates have been extracted.
   Published data	Information obtained from a published source without any further reference to the source of data from which the location coordinates were derived.
   Ship's GPS	Global Positioning System maintained and operated by platform or other vessel from which the navigation and coordinates were derived.
   GPS	Global Positioning System maintained and operated by the USGS WHCMSC.
   Place name	Geographic place names and locales. The coordinates derived from these place names are considered a best guess.
   Target coordinates	Information derived from notes and planning documents developed before the Field Activity has taken place.
   INS	Internal Navigation System aid that uses a computer, motion sensors and rotation sensors to continuously calculate via dead reckoning the position, orientation, and velocity of a moving object without the need for external references.

   date_col

   A number indicating the date the sample was collected in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. If the collection date is unknown, the attribute will have a blank value. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   time_col

   The time the sample was collected in the format HH:MM:SS where HH is hour on a 24-hour clock, MM is minutes, and SS is seconds. A blank value indicates the time of the sample collection was unavailable. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   time_zone

   The time zone in which the collection time is recorded, expressed in the standard three letter abbreviation (e.g., EDT=eastern daylight time, HST=Hawaii standard time, UTC=coordinated universal time, etc.). If the time zone is unknown, the value in the field will be "unknown". (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   cor_length

   The length of the core, measured in centimeters. A value of -9999 indicates the length is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	0
   Maximum:	2070
   Units:	centimeters

   cor_diam

   The diameter of the cylindrical core sample, expressed in centimeters. A value of -9999 indicates the diameter is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	6.2
   Maximum:	10.16
   Units:	centimeters

   watr_d

   The water depth at the location of the sample acquisition, measured in meters. A value of -9999 indicates the water depth is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	10
   Maximum:	4150
   Units:	meters

   split

   This value indicates whether or not the core has been split. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Value	Definition
   yes	The core has been split.
   no	The core has not been split.

   half

   This indicates which split half is the core section - either archive or working. A value of whole round is assigned if the core is not split. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Value	Definition
   archive	This half of the split core is for preservation purposes.
   working	This half of the split core is for additional work, such as subsampling.
   whole round	The cores is not split.

   samp_dsc

   Brief description of the sample entered by the curator; may contain information pertaining to data that are available from the sample or what types of analyses were performed on the sample. A blank indicates no additional descriptive information has been recorded. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   notes

   Additional information about the sample as entered by the curator. A blank indicates no additional notes have been recorded. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   start_date

   A number indicating the start date of the field activity the sample was collected during in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   end_date

   A number indicating the end date of the field activity the sample was collected during in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   scientist

   The chief scientist or scientists associated with the field activity. If available, the value is the full name of the scientist (or scientists separated by a semi-colon if there is more than one). Where a full name is not available, the last name of the scientist or scientists is used. A blank indicates no chief scientist was identified for the field activity. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   platform

   The name of the platform of the field activity. This is typically a ship name. In the case where more than one platform was used on the field activity, the platforms used are separated by a semi-colon. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   dredges

   Rock samples plucked from the sea or lake bed by devices that act as scoops (dredges) towed behind research vessels. Dataset contains 420 data records. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   record_id

   Unique identifier of the sample assigned by the collections inventory curator. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   sample_id

   The identification value assigned to the sample at the time of collection. This varies from field activity to field activity and the ID can contain any combination of letters and numbers. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   serial_no

   The serial number assigned to the dataset field activity from which the sample belongs. This value is in the format YYYY-XXX-FA where YYYY is the year, XXX is the number assigned to the activity within the year, and FA indicates Field Activity. To view additional information associated with the field activity in CMGDS, enter the URL https://cmgds.marine.usgs.gov/fan_info.php?fan=YYYY-XXX-FA (where YYYY is the year, XXX is the number assigned to the activity within the year, and FA indicates Field Activity) into a web browser. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   dev_code

   Abbreviated code for the collection device of the sample. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Value	Definition
   DD	Digby dredge
   PD	Pipe dredge
   RCD	Rockingchair dredge
   RCK	Rock dredge

   beg_lat_dd

   Latitude decimal degrees of the beginning location of the trawl. The horizontal datum associated with latitude fix varies depending on the year and navigation acquisition system. A value of -9999 indicates the beginning latitude of the trawl is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	30.714833
   Maximum:	81.40006
   Units:	decimal degrees

   beg_lon_dd

   Longitude decimal degrees of the beginning location of the trawl. The horizontal datum associated with longitude fix varies depending on the year and navigation acquisition system. A value of -9999 indicates the beginning longitude of the trawl is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	-161.3465
   Maximum:	-77.425
   Units:	decimal degrees

   end_lat_dd

   Latitude decimal degrees of the end location of the trawl. The horizontal datum associated with latitude fix varies depending on the year and navigation acquisition system. A value of -9999 indicates the end latitude of the trawl is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	76.265667
   Maximum:	81.40978
   Units:	decimal degrees

   end_lon_dd

   Longitude decimal degrees of the end location of the trawl. The horizontal datum associated with longitude fix varies depending on the year and navigation acquisition system. A value of -9999 indicates the end longitude of the trawl is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	-160.076
   Maximum:	-151.99023
   Units:	decimal degrees

   loc_source

   The source of the sample's latitude and longitude values. A blank value indicates either the source is unknown, or the location of the sample is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Value	Definition
   Ship's DGPS	Differential Global Positioning System maintained and operated by platform or other vessel from which the navigation and coordinates were derived.
   DGPS	Differential Global Positioning System maintained and operated by the USGS WHCMSC.
   Loran C	Hyperbolic radio navigation system which determines position by listening to low frequency radio signals transmitted by fixed land-based radio beacons.
   Handheld GPS	Global Positioning System which is received by a handheld GPS.
   Trackmap	Analog trackchart documenting the positions of the samples when they were collected which has been digitized, georeferenced and the location coordinates have been extracted.
   Published data	Information obtained from a published source without any further reference to the source of data from which the location coordinates were derived.
   Ship's GPS	Global Positioning System maintained and operated by platform or other vessel from which the navigation and coordinates were derived.
   GPS	Global Positioning System maintained and operated by the USGS WHCMSC.
   Place name	Geographic place names and locales. The coordinates derived from these place names are considered a best guess.
   Target coordinates	Information derived from notes and planning documents developed before the Field Activity has taken place.
   INS	Internal Navigation System aid that uses a computer, motion sensors and rotation sensors to continuously calculate via dead reckoning the position, orientation, and velocity of a moving object without the need for external references.

   date_col

   A number indicating the date the sample was collected in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. A blank value indicates the collection date is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   time_over

   The time the dredge went over the side of the ship in the format HH:MM:SS; where HH is hour on a 24-hour clock, MM is minutes, and SS is seconds. A blank value indicates the time the dredge went over was unavailable. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   time_on

   The time the dredge was retrieved and on the deck of the ship in the format HH:MM:SS; where HH is hour on a 24-hour clock, MM is minutes, and SS is seconds. A blank value indicates the time the dredge was retrieved was unavailable. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   time_zone

   The time zone in which the collection time is recorded, expressed in the standard three letter abbreviation (e.g., EDT=eastern daylight time, HST=Hawaii standard time, UTC=coordinated universal time, etc.). If the time zone is unknown, the value in the field will be "unknown". (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   beg_watr_d

   The water depth at the beginning location of the sample acquisition, measured in meters. A value of -9999 indicates the water depth is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	550
   Maximum:	3826.1
   Units:	meters

   end_watr_d

   The water depth at the end location of the sample acquisition, measured in meters. A value of -9999 indicates the water depth is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	600
   Maximum:	3444.3
   Units:	meters

   tens_data

   Indicates whether tension data collected during dredging activities have been published. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Value	Definition
   yes	Tension data have been published.
   no	Tension data have not been published.

   samp_dsc

   Brief description of the sample entered by the curator; may contain information pertaining to data that are available from the sample or what types of analyses were performed on the sample. A blank indicates no additional descriptive information has been recorded. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   notes

   Additional information about the sample as entered by the curator. A blank indicates no additional notes have been recorded. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   start_date

   A number indicating the start date of the field activity the sample was collected during in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   end_date

   A number indicating the end date of the field activity the sample was collected during in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   scientist

   The chief scientist or scientists associated with the field activity. If available, the value is the full name of the scientist (or scientists separated by a semi-colon if there is more than one). Where a full name is not available, the last name of the scientist or scientists is used. A blank indicates no chief scientist was identified for the field activity. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   platform

   The name of the platform of the field activity. This is typically a ship name. In the case where more than one platform was used on the field activity, the platforms used are separated by a semi-colon. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   grabs

   Samples consisting of the unconsolidated substrate found on the surface of the sea or lake bed. Dataset contains 4074 data records. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   record_id

   Unique identifier of the sample assigned by the collections inventory curator. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   sample_id

   The identification value assigned to the sample at the time of collection. This varies from field activity to field activity and the ID can contain any combination of letters and numbers. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   serial_no

   The serial number assigned to the dataset field activity from which the sample belongs. This value is in the format YYYY-XXX-FA where YYYY is the year, XXX is the number assigned to the activity within the year, and FA indicates Field Activity. To view additional information associated with the field activity in CMGDS, enter the URL https://cmgds.marine.usgs.gov/fan_info.php?fan=YYYY-XXX-FA (where YYYY is the year, XXX is the number assigned to the activity within the year, and FA indicates Field Activity) into a web browser. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   dev_code

   Abbreviated code for the collection device of the sample. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Value	Definition
   IKU	Large volume grab sampler developed by Institutt for Kontinentalsokkelundersokelse (IKU) - Norway
   PTG	Ponar-type grab
   SB	SeaBOSS grab
   SMG	Smith-Macintyre grab
   SPG	Shipek grab
   VV	VanVeen grab
   AG	Alvin grab

   top_interv

   Top of sampled interval, measured in centimeters from the top of the sample. A value of -9999 indicates a value of the top_interv is either not applicable or unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	0
   Maximum:	4
   Units:	centimeters

   bot_interv

   Bottom of sampled interval, measured in centimeters from the top of the sample. A value of -9999 indicates a value of the bottom interval is either not applicable or unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	2
   Maximum:	10
   Units:	centimeters

   lat_dd

   Latitude decimal degrees of the sample location. The horizontal datum associated with latitude fix varies depending on the year and navigation acquisition system. A value of -9999 indicates the latitude of the sample is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	18.093148
   Maximum:	44.88566
   Units:	decimal degrees

   lon_dd

   Longitude decimal degrees of the sample location. The horizontal datum associated with longitude fix varies depending on the year and navigation acquisition system. A value of -9999 indicates a value of the longitude is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	-87.45
   Maximum:	-63.722157
   Units:	decimal degrees

   loc_source

   The source of the sample's latitude and longitude values. A blank value indicates either the source is unknown, or the location of the sample is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Value	Definition
   Ship's DGPS	Differential Global Positioning System maintained and operated by platform or other vessel from which the navigation and coordinates were derived.
   DGPS	Differential Global Positioning System maintained and operated by the USGS WHCMSC.
   Loran C	Hyperbolic radio navigation system which determines position by listening to low frequency radio signals transmitted by fixed land-based radio beacons.
   Handheld GPS	Global Positioning System which is received by a handheld GPS.
   Trackmap	Analog trackchart documenting the positions of the samples when they were collected which has been digitized, georeferenced and the location coordinates have been extracted.
   Published data	Information obtained from a published source without any further reference to the source of data from which the location coordinates were derived.
   Ship's GPS	Global Positioning System maintained and operated by platform or other vessel from which the navigation and coordinates were derived.
   GPS	Global Positioning System maintained and operated by the USGS WHCMSC.
   Place name	Geographic place names and locales. The coordinates derived from these place names are considered a best guess.
   Target coordinates	Information derived from notes and planning documents developed before the Field Activity has taken place.
   INS	Internal Navigation System aid that uses a computer, motion sensors and rotation sensors to continuously calculate via dead reckoning the position, orientation, and velocity of a moving object without the need for external references.

   date_col

   A number indicating the date the sample was collected in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. A blank value indicates the collection date is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   time_col

   The time the sample was collected in the format HH:MM:SS where HH is hour on a 24-hour clock, MM is minutes, and SS is seconds. A blank value indicates the collection date is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   time_zone

   The time zone in which the collection time is recorded, expressed in the standard three letter abbreviation (e.g., EDT=eastern daylight time, HST=Hawaii standard time, UTC=coordinated universal time, etc.). If the time zone is unknown, the value in the field will be "unknown". (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   watr_d

   The water depth at the location of the sample acquisition, measured in meters. A value of -9999 indicates the water depth is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	1.04
   Maximum:	2028
   Units:	meters

   samp_dsc

   Brief description of the sample entered by the curator; may contain information pertaining to data that are available from the sample or what types of analyses were performed on the sample. A blank indicates no additional descriptive information has been recorded. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   notes

   Additional information about the sample as entered by the curator. A blank indicates no additional notes have been recorded. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   start_date

   A number indicating the start date of the field activity the sample was collected during in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   end_date

   A number indicating the end date of the field activity the sample was collected during in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   scientist

   The chief scientist or scientists associated with the field activity. If available, the value is the full name of the scientist (or scientists separated by a semi-colon if there is more than one). Where a full name is not available, the last name of the scientist or scientists is used. A blank indicates no chief scientist was identified for the field activity. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   platform

   The name of the platform of the field activity. This is typically a ship name. In the case where more than one platform was used on the field activity, the platforms used are separated by a semi-colon. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   other

   Samples that don't fall into one of the other categories (cores, dredges, grabs, slides, subsamples). These samples might include coral skeletons, water samples and peel samples. Dataset contains 33 data records. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   record_id

   Unique identifier of the sample assigned by the collections inventory curator. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   sample_id

   The identification value assigned to the sample at the time of collection. This varies from field activity to field activity and the ID can contain any combination of letters and numbers. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   serial_no

   The serial number assigned to the dataset field activity from which the sample belongs. This value is in the format YYYY-XXX-FA where YYYY is the year, XXX is the number assigned to the activity within the year, and FA indicates Field Activity. To view additional information associated with the field activity in CMGDS, enter the URL https://cmgds.marine.usgs.gov/fan_info.php?fan=YYYY-XXX-FA (where YYYY is the year, XXX is the number assigned to the activity within the year, and FA indicates Field Activity) into a web browser. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   dev_code

   Abbreviated code for the collection device of the sample. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Value	Definition
   FS	Fluff sample
   HND	Hand sample
   PN	1-meter plankton net
   SBC	Syringe sample from box core
   SD	Sediment drill
   ST	Sediment trap
   UNK	Unknown device
   NB	Niskin bottle

   top_interv

   Top of sampled interval, measured in centimeters from the top of the sample. A value of -9999 indicates a value of the top_interv is either not applicable or unknown. A value of -8888 indicates the sample came from a core catcher. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	0
   Maximum:	0
   Units:	centimeters

   bot_interv

   Bottom of sampled interval, measured in centimeters from the top of the sample. A value of -9999 indicates a value of the bottom interval is either not applicable or unknown. A value of -8888 indicates the sample came from a core catcher. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	243
   Maximum:	647
   Units:	centimeters

   lat_dd

   Latitude decimal degrees of the sample location. The horizontal datum associated with latitude fix varies depending on the year and navigation acquisition system. A value of -9999 indicates the latitude of the sample is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	29.163296
   Maximum:	80.81377
   Units:	decimal degrees

   lon_dd

   Longitude decimal degrees of the sample location. The horizontal datum associated with longitude fix varies depending on the year and navigation acquisition system. A value of -9999 indicates a value of the longitude is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	-160.04983
   Maximum:	-85.646642
   Units:	decimal degrees

   loc_source

   The source of the sample's latitude and longitude values. A blank value indicates either the source is unknown, or the location of the sample is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Value	Definition
   Ship's DGPS	Differential Global Positioning System maintained and operated by platform or other vessel from which the navigation and coordinates were derived.
   DGPS	Differential Global Positioning System maintained and operated by the USGS WHCMSC.
   Loran C	Hyperbolic radio navigation system which determines position by listening to low frequency radio signals transmitted by fixed land-based radio beacons.
   Handheld GPS	Global Positioning System which is received by a handheld GPS.
   Trackmap	Analog trackchart documenting the positions of the samples when they were collected which has been digitized, georeferenced and the location coordinates have been extracted.
   Published data	Information obtained from a published source without any further reference to the source of data from which the location coordinates were derived.
   Ship's GPS	Global Positioning System maintained and operated by platform or other vessel from which the navigation and coordinates were derived.
   GPS	Global Positioning System maintained and operated by the USGS WHCMSC.
   Place name	Geographic place names and locales. The coordinates derived from these place names are considered a best guess.
   Target coordinates	Information derived from notes and planning documents developed before the Field Activity has taken place.
   INS	Internal Navigation System aid that uses a computer, motion sensors and rotation sensors to continuously calculate via dead reckoning the position, orientation, and velocity of a moving object without the need for external references.

   date_col

   A number indicating the date the sample was collected in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. A blank value indicates the collection date is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   time_col

   The time the sample was collected in the format HH:MM:SS where HH is hour on a 24-hour clock, MM is minutes, and SS is seconds. A blank value indicates the collection date is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   time_zone

   The time zone in which the collection time is recorded, expressed in the standard three letter abbreviation (e.g., EDT=eastern daylight time, HST=Hawaii standard time, UTC=coordinated universal time, etc.). If the time zone is unknown, the value in the field will be "unknown". (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   material

   A specific description of the nature of the sample (e.g., water sample, coral sample, etc.). (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   dimensions

   If the sample is bound by the dimensions of its container (a liquid or gas), what are the dimensions of the container, expressed in International System of Units (grams, liters, centimeters, etc.) with units of measure accompanying the dimensions. A blank value indicates either unknown or not applicable. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   watr_d

   The water depth at the location of the sample acquisition, measured in meters. A value of -9999 indicates the water depth is unknown or not applicable. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	57.32
   Maximum:	3851
   Units:	meters

   samp_dsc

   Brief description of the sample entered by the curator; may contain information pertaining to data that are available from the sample or what types of analyses were performed on the sample. A blank indicates no additional descriptive information has been recorded. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   notes

   Additional information about the sample as entered by the curator. A blank indicates no additional notes have been recorded. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   start_date

   A number indicating the start date of the field activity the sample was collected during in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   end_date

   A number indicating the end date of the field activity the sample was collected during in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   scientist

   The chief scientist or scientists associated with the field activity. If available, the value is the full name of the scientist (or scientists separated by a semi-colon if there is more than one). Where a full name is not available, the last name of the scientist or scientists is used. A blank indicates no chief scientist was identified for the field activity. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   platform

   The name of the platform of the field activity. This is typically a ship name. In the case where more than one platform was used on the field activity, the platforms used are separated by a semi-colon. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   slides

   Slides may be microfossil slides (foraminifera and diatoms picked by paleontologists or geologists), thin sections of geological samples, or smear slides of unconsolidated sediment. Dataset contains 2300 data records. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   record_id

   Unique identifier of the sample assigned by the dollections inventory curator. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   sample_id

   The identification value assigned to the sample at the time of collection. This varies from field activity to field activity and the ID can contain any combination of letters and numbers. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   serial_no

   The serial number assigned to the dataset field activity from which the sample belongs. This value is in the format YYYY-XXX-FA where YYYY is the year, XXX is the number assigned to the activity within the year, and FA indicates Field Activity. To view additional information associated with the field activity in CMGDS, enter the URL https://cmgds.marine.usgs.gov/fan_info.php?fan=YYYY-XXX-FA (where YYYY is the year, XXX is the number assigned to the activity within the year, and FA indicates Field Activity) into a web browser. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   dev_code

   Abbreviated code for the collection device of the sample. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Value	Definition
   ALP	Alpine piston core
   APC	Alvin push core
   BC	Box core.
   DD	Digby dredge
   DOP	Diver-operated push core
   EPC	Ewing piston core
   FFC	Free-fall core
   FS	Fluff sample
   GC	Gravity core
   GHF	Gravity heat flow core
   GPC	Giant piston core
   HND	Hand sample
   HPC	Hydroplastic core
   HDC	Hydraulically-damped slow core
   HSC	Hydrostatic core
   IKU	Large volume grab sampler developed by Institutt for Kontinentalsokkelundersokelse (IKU) - Norway
   PD	Pipe dredge
   PHC	Push core
   PN	1-meter plankton net
   PC	Piston core
   PTG	Ponar-type grab
   RCD	Rockingchair dredge
   RCK	Rock dredge
   SB	SeaBOSS grab
   SBC	Syringe sample from box core
   SD	Sediment drill
   SFG	Surface grab
   SHC	Slide hammer core
   SMG	Smith-Macintyre grab
   SPG	Shipek grab
   ST	Sediment trap
   TC	Trigger-weight core
   UNK	Unknown device
   VBC	Vegimatic box core
   VC	Vibracore
   VV	VanVeen grab
   NB	Niskin bottle
   AG	Alvin grab
   RD	Rotary drill
   PPC	Portable piston core

   slide_type

   Type of slide sample has been prepared on. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   top_interv

   Top of sampled interval, measured in centimeters from the top of the sample. A value of -9999 indicates a value of the top_interv is either not applicable or unknown. A value of -8888 indicates the sample came from a core catcher. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	4
   Maximum:	20760
   Units:	centimeters

   bot_interv

   Bottom of sampled interval, measured in centimeters from the top of the sample. A value of -9999 indicates a value of the bottom interval is either not applicable or unknown. A value of -8888 indicates the sample came from a core catcher. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	5
   Maximum:	20770
   Units:	centimeters

   lat_dd

   Latitude decimal degrees of the sample location. The horizontal datum associated with latitude fix varies depending on the year and navigation acquisition system. A value of -9999 indicates the latitude of the sample is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	30.6188
   Maximum:	40.9311
   Units:	decimal degrees

   lon_dd

   Longitude decimal degrees of the sample location. The horizontal datum associated with longitude fix varies depending on the year and navigation acquisition system. A value of -9999 indicates a value of the longitude is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	-80.5175
   Maximum:	-67.5083
   Units:	decimal degrees

   loc_source

   The source of the sample's latitude and longitude values. A blank value indicates either the source is unknown, or the location of the sample is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Value	Definition
   Ship's DGPS	Differential Global Positioning System maintained and operated by platform or other vessel from which the navigation and coordinates were derived.
   DGPS	Differential Global Positioning System maintained and operated by the USGS WHCMSC.
   Loran C	Hyperbolic radio navigation system which determines position by listening to low frequency radio signals transmitted by fixed land-based radio beacons.
   Handheld GPS	Global Positioning System which is received by a handheld GPS.
   Trackmap	Analog trackchart documenting the positions of the samples when they were collected which has been digitized, georeferenced and the location coordinates have been extracted.
   Published data	Information obtained from a published source without any further reference to the source of data from which the location coordinates were derived.
   Ship's GPS	Global Positioning System maintained and operated by platform or other vessel from which the navigation and coordinates were derived.
   GPS	Global Positioning System maintained and operated by the USGS WHCMSC.
   Place name	Geographic place names and locales. The coordinates derived from these place names are considered a best guess.
   Target coordinates	Information derived from notes and planning documents developed before the Field Activity has taken place.
   INS	Internal Navigation System aid that uses a computer, motion sensors and rotation sensors to continuously calculate via dead reckoning the position, orientation, and velocity of a moving object without the need for external references.

   watr_d

   The water depth at the location of the sample acquisition, measured in meters. A value of -9999 indicates the water depth is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	32.3
   Maximum:	1386
   Units:	meters

   samp_dsc

   Brief description of the sample based on annotations on the slide; may contain information pertaining the type of material or microfossils present on the slide, as well as who prepared the slide or picked the fossils. A blank indicates no additional descriptive information has been recorded. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   notes

   Additional information about the sample as entered by the curator. A blank indicates no additional notes have been recorded. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   start_date

   A number indicating the start date of the field activity the sample was collected during in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   end_date

   A number indicating the end date of the field activity the sample was collected during in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   scientist

   The chief scientist or scientists associated with the field activity. If available, the value is the full name of the scientist (or scientists separated by a semi-colon if there is more than one). Where a full name is not available, the last name of the scientist or scientists is used. A blank indicates no chief scientist was identified for the field activity. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   platform

   The name of the platform of the field activity. This is typically a ship name. In the case where more than one platform was used on the field activity, the platforms used are separated by a semi-colon. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   subsamples

   Samples taken from other samples (cores, grabs, and dredges). Dataset contains 94 data records. Ver. 2.0 added 4919 data records bringing the total to 5013 data records. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   record_id

   Unique identifier of the sample assigned by the collections inventory curator. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   sample_id

   The identification value assigned to the original sample at the time of collection. This varies from field activity to field activity and the ID can contain any combination of letters and numbers. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   subsamp_id

   The name given to the subsample by the lab analyst or person collecting the subsample. The name of this attribute was modified from the original "subsamp_name" used in version 1. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   serial_no

   The serial number assigned to the dataset field activity from which the sample belongs. This value is in the format YYYY-XXX-FA where YYYY is the year, XXX is the number assigned to the activity within the year, and FA indicates Field Activity. To view additional information associated with the field activity in CMGDS, enter the URL https://cmgds.marine.usgs.gov/fan_info.php?fan=YYYY-XXX-FA (where YYYY is the year, XXX is the number assigned to the activity within the year, and FA indicates Field Activity) into a web browser. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   sample_typ

   Indicates the type of original sample the subsample came from. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   dev_code

   Abbreviated code for the collection device of the sample. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Value	Definition
   ALP	Alpine piston core
   APC	Alvin push core
   BC	Box core.
   DD	Digby dredge
   DOP	Diver-operated push core
   EPC	Ewing piston core
   FFC	Free-fall core
   FS	Fluff sample
   GC	Gravity core
   GHF	Gravity heat flow core
   GPC	Giant piston core
   HDC	Hydraulically-damped slow core
   HND	Hand sample
   HPC	Hydroplastic core
   HSC	Hydrostatic core
   IKU	Large volume grab sampler developed by Institutt for Kontinentalsokkelundersokelse (IKU) - Norway
   PD	Pipe dredge
   PHC	Push core
   PN	1-meter plankton net
   PC	Piston core
   PTG	Ponar-type grab
   RCD	Rockingchair dredge
   RCK	Rock dredge
   SB	SeaBOSS grab
   SBC	Syringe sample from box core
   SD	Sediment drill
   SFG	Surface grab
   SHC	Slide hammer core
   SMG	Smith-Macintyre grab
   SPG	Shipek grab
   ST	Sediment trap
   TC	Trigger-weight core
   UNK	Unknown device
   VBC	Vegimatic box core
   VC	Vibracore
   VV	VanVeen grab
   NB	Niskin bottle
   AG	Alvin grab
   RD	Rotary drill
   PPC	Portable piston core

   top_interv

   Top of sampled interval, measured in centimeters from the top of the sample. A value of -9999 indicates a value of the top_interv is either not applicable or unknown. A value of -8888 indicates the sample came from a core catcher. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	0
   Maximum:	166
   Units:	centimeters

   bot_interv

   Bottom of sampled interval, measured in centimeters from the top of the sample. A value of -9999 indicates a value of the bottom interval is either not applicable or unknown. A value of -8888 indicates the sample came from a core catcher. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	1
   Maximum:	168
   Units:	centimeters

   lat_dd

   Latitude decimal degrees of the sample location. The horizontal datum associated with latitude fix varies depending on the year and navigation acquisition system. A value of -9999 indicates the latitude of the sample is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	27.580827
   Maximum:	45.05839
   Units:	decimal degrees

   lon_dd

   Longitude decimal degrees of the sample location. The horizontal datum associated with longitude fix varies depending on the year and navigation acquisition system. A value of -9999 indicates a value of the longitude is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	-82.715883
   Maximum:	-66.2306
   Units:	decimal degrees

   loc_source

   The source of the sample's latitude and longitude values. A blank value indicates either the source is unknown, or the location of the sample is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Value	Definition
   Ship's DGPS	Differential Global Positioning System maintained and operated by platform or other vessel from which the navigation and coordinates were derived.
   DGPS	Differential Global Positioning System maintained and operated by the USGS WHCMSC.
   Loran C	Hyperbolic radio navigation system which determines position by listening to low frequency radio signals transmitted by fixed land-based radio beacons.
   Handheld GPS	Global Positioning System which is received by a handheld GPS.
   Trackmap	Analog trackchart documenting the positions of the samples when they were collected which has been digitized, georeferenced and the location coordinates have been extracted.
   Published data	Information obtained from a published source without any further reference to the source of data from which the location coordinates were derived.
   Ship's GPS	Global Positioning System maintained and operated by platform or other vessel from which the navigation and coordinates were derived.
   GPS	Global Positioning System maintained and operated by the USGS WHCMSC.
   Place name	Geographic place names and locales. The coordinates derived from these place names are considered a best guess.
   Target coordinates	Information derived from notes and planning documents developed before the Field Activity has taken place.
   INS	Internal Navigation System aid that uses a computer, motion sensors and rotation sensors to continuously calculate via dead reckoning the position, orientation, and velocity of a moving object without the need for external references.

   date_col

   A number indicating the date the parent sample was collected in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. A blank value indicates the collection date is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   time_col

   The time the parent sample was collected in the format HH:MM:SS where HH is hour on a 24-hour clock, MM is minutes, and SS is seconds. A blank value indicates the collection date is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   time_zone

   The time zone in which the collection time is recorded, expressed in the standard three letter abbreviation (e.g., EDT=eastern daylight time, HST=Hawaii standard time, UTC=coordinated universal time, etc.). If the time zone is unknown, the value in the field will be "unknown". (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   watr_d

   The water depth at the location of the sample acquisition, measured in meters. A value of -9999 indicates the water depth is unknown. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

   Range of values
   Minimum:	25
   Maximum:	281
   Units:	meters

   samp_dsc

   Brief description of the sample entered by the curator; may contain information pertaining to data that are available from the sample. A blank indicates no additional descriptive information has been recorded. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set.

   analyses

   A listing of known analyses performed on this subsample. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   notes

   Additional information about the sample as entered by the curator. A blank indicates no additional notes have been recorded. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   start_date

   A number indicating the start date of the field activity the sample was collected during in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   end_date

   A number indicating the end date of the field activity the sample was collected during in the format YYYY-MM-DD where YYYY is the year, MM is the numeric month, and DD is the day of the month. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Although the value is a number, the meaning is only derived once the individual components of the number are derived.

   scientist

   The chief scientist or scientists associated with the field activity. If available, the value is the full name of the scientist (or scientists separated by a semi-colon if there is more than one). Where a full name is not available, the last name of the scientist or scientists is used. A blank indicates no chief scientist was identified for the field activity. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   platform

   The name of the platform of the field activity. This is typically a ship name. In the case where more than one platform was used on the field activity, the platforms used are separated by a semi-colon. The information in this attribute is pulled from another CMHRP database and is current as of the release date of this version. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey) Character set

   Entity_and_Attribute_Overview:

   The attribute definitions are based on the database as a whole. In the case of enumerated definitions, all possible values are defined for that particular sample type.

   Entity_and_Attribute_Detail_Citation: U.S. Geological Survey
   

Who produced the data set?

1. Who are the originators of the data set? (may include formal authors, digital compilers, and editors)
   • Buczkowski, Brian J.
   • Cross, VeeAnn A.
   • Schweitzer, Peter N.
2. Who also contributed to the data set?
3. To whom should users address questions about the data?
   U.S. Geological Survey

   Attn: Brian Buczkowski

   Physical Scientist, Curator of Collections

   Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center

   Woods Hole, MA
   

   508-548-8700 x2361 (voice)

   508-457-2310 (FAX)

   bbuczkowski@usgs.gov

Why was the data set created?

The Samples Repository provides secure storage, processing, and resampling services to USGS scientists and researchers from government and academic institutions investigating the history, nature, and physical properties of geological, biological, and geochemical materials collected from coastal, marine, and near-shore environments. These working scientific collections continue to be a valuable resource for research and scientific investigation through preservation in the Samples Repository and access through the collections inventory.

How was the data set created?

1. From what previous works were the data drawn?
2. How were the data generated, processed, and modified?

   Date: 2018 (process 1 of 3)

   This collections inventory has been compiled, organized, and released online to provide researchers and the general public with a means to discover and request scientific sample material preserved and maintained by the Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center Samples Repository. For more information pertaining to the organization, management, and access to the sample collection managed by the Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center's Samples Repository, see Buczkowski (2022) in the cross-reference section.

   The Geodetic_Model section defines the horizontal datum as WGS 84, although this is not technically accurate. The positional accuracy is variable and somewhat related to the year of acquisition and source of the location coordinates. Older datasets (from the 1960's) have a much lower accuracy (on the order of 100 meters) due to the navigation systems available. Additional inaccuracy is introduced because no attempt has been made to make datum transformation from the older datums to WGS 84, so the latitudes and longitudes represent a mix of datums. The only assumption that can be made about the datum is based on the year of acquisition. Data collected prior to 1983 is assumed to have a horizontal datum of NAD 27, while data collected after 1983 is assumed to have a horizontal datum of either NAD 83 or WGS 84. In some instances, place names were the only location information available. These place names were assigned coordinates based on the place name and other associated information describing the location of the sample. Person who carried out this activity:
   

   U.S. Geological Survey

   Attn: Brian Buczkowski

   Physical Scientist, Curator of Collections

   Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center

   Woods Hole, MA
   

   508-548-8700 x2361 (voice)

   508-457-2310 (FAX)

   bbuczkowski@usgs.gov

   Date: 2018 (process 2 of 3)

   The collections inventory is managed internally in a PostgreSQL database (version 10.6). When updates to the inventory are reviewed and ready for release, the contents of the database are exported from the internal database and loaded into the public facing Trusted Digital Repository CMGDS (PostgreSQL version 9.6.24). The collections inventory database pulls field activity information relevant to sample collection activities from CMGDS and incorporates it into the inventory search results to provide users with detailed and consistent information. Individual CSV datasets for cores, dredges, grabs, slides, subsamples, and other samples are generated for export and download. CSV files are then bundled with metadata and available for download as a complete package containing the entire contents of the inventory. These steps are performed by VeeAnn Cross and Peter Schweitzer. Person who carried out this activity:
   

   U.S. Geological Survey

   Attn: Brian Buczkowski

   Physical Scientist, Curator of Collections

   Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center

   Woods Hole, MA
   

   508-548-8700 x2361 (voice)

   508-457-2310 (FAX)

   bbuczkowski@usgs.gov

   Date: 2023 (process 3 of 3)

   Version 2.0: The PostgreSQL database (version 10.6) inventory has been updated with 4919 subsamples generated through the subsampling and analysis cores collected through WHCMSC research on marsh sediments from Cape Cod, southern New England, and Tampa Bay, Florida collected on field activities 2012-040-FA, 2013-061-FA, 2014-073-FA, 2014-074-FA, 2014-075-FA, 2014-076-FA, 2014-077-FA, 2015-042-FA, 2015-043-FA, 2015-045-FA, 2015-071-FA, 2016-016-FA, 2015-041-FA, 2015-044-FA, 2016-036-FA, and 2017-035-FA. The inventory and packaging of samples for inclusion in the repository was made possible by a grant from the USGS National Geological and Geophysical Data Preservation Program. The updated database table was then exported as a CSV file. In addition, the attribute name "subsamp_id" now replaces the original attribute name "subsamp_name" used in version 1. Person who carried out this activity:
   

   U.S. Geological Survey

   Attn: Brian Buczkowski

   Physical Scientist, Curator of Collections

   Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center

   Woods Hole, MA
   

   508-548-8700 x2361 (voice)

   508-457-2310 (FAX)

   bbuczkowski@usgs.gov

3. What similar or related data should the user be aware of?
   Buczkowski, Brian J., 2022, Collections management plan for the U.S. Geological Survey Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center samples repository: Scientific Investigations Report 2022-5106, U.S. Geological Survey, Reston, VA.

   Online Links:

   • https://doi.org/10.3133/sir20225106

   Other_Citation_Details:

   This report provides updated information pertaining to the organization, management, and access to the sample collections managed by the Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center's Samples Repository. This report supersedes U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Reports 2006–1187 and 2018-1100.

   U.S. Geological Survey, 2018, The USGS Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center samples repository page.

   Online Links:

   • https://www.usgs.gov/labs/samples-repository

   Hopkins, T.L., 1964, A survey of marine bottom samplers: Progress in Oceanography v.2, pp. 213-256.

   Online Links:

   • https://doi.org/10.1016/0079-6611(64)90005-9

   Other_Citation_Details:

   This publication describes in more detail some of the collection devices used by the Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center.

How reliable are the data; what problems remain in the data set?

1. How well have the observations been checked?
   
2. How accurate are the geographic locations?
   The positional accuracy is variable and somewhat related to the year of acquisition. Older datasets (from the 1960's) have a much lower accuracy (on the order of 100 meters) due to the navigation systems available. Additional inaccuracy is introduced because no attempt has been made to make datum transformation from the older datums to WGS 84, so the latitudes and longitudes represent a mix of datums. The only assumption that can be made about the datum is based on the year of acquisition. Data collected prior to 1983 is assumed to have a horizontal datum of NAD 27, while data collected after 1983 is assumed to have a horizontal datum of either NAD 83 or WGS 84. In some instances, place names were the only location information available. These place names were assigned coordinates based on the place name and other associated information describing the location of the sample.
3. How accurate are the heights or depths?
   No attempt has been made to assess the vertical accuracy of water depth measurements where water depths are reported. The source of the reported values is unknown and could range from fathometer systems (with or without system draft accounted for), or extraction of water depth values from a bathymetry grid based on the sample location. A value of 9999 is used in the Depth_Resolution of the Depth_System_Definition in order to satisfy the metadata standard and as a NoData value flag that indicates that no specific specific value can be assigned.
4. Where are the gaps in the data? What is missing?
   This dataset represents all the samples in the WHSMSC samples repository at the time of publication. This is a total of 13148 records. The number of records in each data type are as follows: cores - 1308; dredges - 420; grabs - 4074; slides - 2300; subsamples - 5013; other - 33.
   A version 2.0 update in 2023 added an addition 4,914 database entries (up from 94 entries in 2018) from subsamples and analyses of cores collected between 2012 and 2017.
5. How consistent are the relationships among the observations, including topology?
   All samples are entered into the PostgresSQL database and the information entered for each sample is as consistent as possible. The information provided in the attributes "start_date," "end_date," "scientist," and "platform" are derived from the CMHRP database Compass and are current as of the version 2 release of this database in August 2023. The authors are not responsible for any changes that may be made to Compass or any potential discrepancies that may occur between these databases after the most current versioned release.

How can someone get a copy of the data set?

Are there legal restrictions on access or use of the data?

Access_Constraints: None.
Use_Constraints:

Not to be used for navigation. The public domain data from the U.S. Government are freely redistributable with proper metadata and source attribution. Please recognize the U.S. Geological Survey as the originator of the dataset.

1. Who distributes the data set? (Distributor 1 of 1)
   
   U.S. Geological Survey

   Attn: Brian Buczkowski

   Physical Scientist, Curator of Collections

   Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center

   Woods Hole, MA
   

   508-548-8700 x2361 (voice)

   508-457-2310 (FAX)

   bbuczkowski@usgs.gov
2. What's the catalog number I need to order this data set? A zip file (created with 7-Zip version 23.01) containing the collections inventory data and the associated CSDGM FGDC metadata. The sample data are in CSV format with a separate file for each data type (core, grab, dredge, slide, subsample, and other).
3. What legal disclaimers am I supposed to read?

   Unless otherwise stated, all data, metadata and related materials are considered to satisfy the quality standards relative to the purpose for which the data were collected. Although these data and associated metadata have been reviewed for accuracy and completeness and approved for release by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), no warranty expressed or implied is made regarding the display or utility of the data for other purposes, nor on all computer systems, nor shall the act of distribution constitute any such warranty.

4. How can I download or order the data?
   • Availability in digital form:

     Data format:	The zip file contains the CSV file of the WHCMSC collections inventory samples, and the associated metadata. in format CSV (version Exported from PostgresSQL database)
     Network links:	https://cmgds.marine.usgs.gov/data/whcmsc/data-release/doi-F7319TT0/CollectionsInventory_ver2.0.zip https://doi.org/10.5066/F7319TT0

   • Cost to order the data: none

Who wrote the metadata?

Dates:

Last modified: 05-Sep-2023

Metadata author:

U.S. Geological Survey

Attn: Brian Buczkowski

Physical Scientist, Curator of Collections

Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center

Woods Hole, MA

508-548-8700 x2361 (voice)

508-457-2310 (FAX)

gs-wh_curator@usgs.gov

Contact_Instructions:

The metadata contact email address is a generic address in the event the person is no longer with USGS.

Metadata standard:

FGDC Content Standards for Digital Geospatial Metadata (FGDC-STD-001-1998)