During the final reporting period we determined the data needs of the operational modelling community (Task 4.4) and mapped existing real time data pathways (Task 2.2). We defined the data format, metadata and data pathway for velocity observations (Task 2.2). In Task 2.3 the mathematical framework to add uncertainty estimates to observations via a secondary quality control procedure was set out.
We also designed the foundations of the EuroGO-SHIP Best Practices & Standards (BP&S) System (task 3.1) which centered on two complementary dimensions: governance and technical implementation. Task 3.2 operationalized the principles defined in Task 3.1 by demonstrating how a future RI would review, revise, and validate best practices. Four coordinated pilot activities addressed core hydrographic measurements: salinity, nutrients, carbonate system, and data handling. Together, they provided the experimental evidence needed to refine Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), assess feasibility of shared facilities, and demonstrate community-scale interoperability.
In parallel WP4 continued to evaluate the potential impact of EuroGO-SHIP on our ability to observe Europe´s egional seas. Task 4.1 which considered the impacts of improvements in data quality selected the reanalysis products and methods that we were used in the simulations and analyses and undertook the simulations. WP4 also included intensive interaction with stakeholders, including data originators (Task 4.2) governments and funding agencies (Task 4.3) and end-users (Task 4.4). Data originators were engaged at workshops (ICES, MonGOOS, Black Sea), which reiterated the importance of our data curation work in Task 2.2 and EuroGO-SHIP's potential role in hydrographical advocacy. This has stimulated our development of success stories as accessible pen pictures of hydrography's importance.
WP5 focussed on determining EuroGO-SHIP's place in the existing Marine RI landscape (Task 5.1) and developing a structure, governance and financial model for a future RI to support European hydrography (Task 5.2). We built on activities in the first reporting period by organising a dedicated workshop in June 2024 incorporating a series of structured activities to collect detailed information on the capabilities of RIs, associated RI projects, data aggregators, and service providers. In Task 5.2 and D5.2 we formulated a series of recommendations including short-term actions, longer-term actions and a preferred option for the governance that reflected the opinion of the consortium.
