The US Coast Guard announced that it is analyzing to phase out the process of distributing local broadcast notice to mariners by routine VHF radio broadcasts.
In 2020, USCG began making broadcast notices to mariners containing locally relevant information accessible by mobile devices and the internet. Previously, the only way to obtain this information in a timely fashion was to tune in to local US Coast Guard broadcasts that take place on very high frequency (VHF) marine radio two or more times per day.
The new methods of information delivery have included Rich Site Summary, also known as Really Simple Syndication (RSS) feeds, email, and other means such as map-based filtering.
The Coast Guard has also received public feedback indicating that mariners prefer the real-time accessibility of mobile and internet access to this information over scheduled VHF broadcasts, because access is more timely, reliable, convenient, and customizable.
Furthermore, some mariners have reported that VHF broadcast notice to mariners are bothersome, because they are perceived as unnecessary radio clutter that can be distracting when maneuvering along a dock, in ports or other areas of congested traffic.
The Coast Guard is considering phasing out the process of distributing this information by routine VHF radio broadcasts, and is seeking public comment
Comments must be submitted on or before August 16, 2021.
