INTRODUCTION 



Fisheries productivity is but a factor of productivity in general and this 

 in turn is based on the hydrography, or physical-chemical conditions, of 

 the waters involved. Though these conditions are obviously basic, it is seldom 

 that we have approached a problem in fishery yields from this standpoint. 

 The importance of soil, weather, and climate have not been overlooked in 

 agriculture or other aspects of production on land. We must realize that 

 comparable determinants are equally important in aquatic habitats. Scientists 

 recognize this; yet studies in hydrography and in the specific effects of 

 hydrographic features on production are in their infancy. The public has 

 responded slowly to such concepts, for underwater conditions do not speak 

 for themselves, as do droughts on land, for^xample. This is unfortunate and 

 must be remedied, for in the final analysis it is the public that makes policy 

 in fisheries utilization, management, etc., and sponsors much of the necessary 

 fisheries research. 



The objective of the present study is to present and discuss the significance 

 of pertinent hydrographic information relative to North Carolina marine 

 waters. An attempt is made to utilize all accumulated information up to the 

 year 1947. Such available facts are so scarce and so widely scattered, and 

 have been accumulated for such diverse purposes that one might consider it 

 a wasteful objective; however, when brought together they do give a general 

 picture. Certainly this is the logical first step in analyzing the merits of the 

 many optimistic guesses as to the great potentialities of North Carolina's 

 marine waters, and it is the obvious basis for planning the necessary further 

 research in this field. 



This, and several related studies, were visualized and guided by Dr. Robert 

 E. Coker and Dr.' Harden F. Taylor. These two scientists have been a great 

 inspiration to the writer and have been of special assistance in helping him 

 obtain and analyze the available facts. An attempt to include the numerous 

 others whose contributions are so greatly appreciated would take many pages. 

 The paper itself is, in a sense, a continuous account of contributions from 

 one person or organization after another. I hasten to add that all involved 

 (see the numerous references to data sources) have not only been exceed- 

 ingly generous in supplying information but have also given the matter much 

 time and thought in discussion and correspondence. I am especially indebted 

 to Dr. Gordon Riley for his helpful criticisms. 



