Flotilla 73, a part of District 7, Division 7 located at 299 Boca Ciega Dr., Madeira Beach, FL (727) 391-5185
 
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Navigation Aid Verifier Information
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AID TO NAVIGATION
VERIFYING AND REPORTING

“We verify the ATONs and PATONs, check the Bridges, and update the Charts and Small Craft Facilities along the waterways of the United States”

One of the primary responsibilities of the Auxiliary Aid to Navigation Program is the reporting of discrepancies observed on Federal Short Range Aids to Navigation ( ATON s), Private Aids to Navigation (PATONs) and bridges spanning navigational waterways. In addition, the Auxiliary is tasked with the verification of PATONs in their operating area. The Auxiliary works with the U.S. Coast Guard to accomplish this important mission in a partnership that is focused on assisting the Coast Guard in backwater and remote areas where the Coast Guard normally doesn’t transit in the normal course of daily operation, as well as the more traveled waterways of the country.

Any Auxliarist may report an ATON, PATON, or Bridge discrepancy. However, only CERTIFIED AIDS VERIFIERS may verify PATONs. Consult with your FSO-AN on how to become a Certified Aids Verifier. Your FSO-AN will provide you with the correct distribution list for the 7054 form. Send your 7030 form to your FSO-IS to get credit for the mission.

 

Tools Needed for NavAid and Bridge Inspection
ITEM
DESCRIPTION
Binoculars
7 X 50 preferred for nautical use
GPS
Any portable or fixed-mount model
Stop Watch
Lighted background for lighted aid period timing at night
Light List
Copy of Light List covering AOR
Local Notice to Mariners
Check the latest status on charts, aids, and bridges
Coast Pilot
Check the marking and opening rules for bridges
Nautical Chart
Use the latest edition of your area chart
Digital Camera
2 MegPixel, or better, to document your findings
Pencil & Pad
Sharp #H or HB pencil and paper to record notes
Chart No. 1
Defines all of the symbols and markings on nautical charts
Chart Plotter
Useful in plotting channel courses
ANSC 7054 Form
Raw form to fill in data collected

Necessary Publications
Defines all approved ATONS and PATONS
Provides all latest updates to Aids, Bridges, and Charts
Drawbridge Operation Regulations
Provides harbor and bridge information for local area
Free downloads of NOAA charts
Chart Updates Get the latest updates for any chart
Describes all of the nautical chart symbols and references
Form used for ATON/PATON and Bridge discrepancy and verifications
Form used to report AN mission time to get your credit

 

Tutorial Documents

Related Internet Links
Latest updates for your chart edition
Update your chart with the latest information
Free Maptech Chart Navigator Viewer
On-line NOAA Chart Viewer
Purchase charts on-line
Purchase waterproof charts on-line
Lots of helpful information on Aid Verifying program
Tide predictions for your area
Auxiliary Marine Safety Dept.
National C.G. Bridge Administration
CG District 7- Waterways Management
Admin. control for all Aids to Navigation
Last Updated Nov. 2, 2008
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