HISTORY OF HYDROGRAPHIC RESEARCH IN SWEDEN

Abstract

Hydrographic investigations in the 18th and 19th centuries are briefly described. An extensive investigation of the Baltic Sea was performed in 1877. Regular observations of temperature, salinity, and currents were started on Swedish lightships and coastal stations in 1878. The different hydrographic organizations and scientists are presented. In 1893 the Swedish Hydro- graphic Commission, from 1902 the Hydrographic-Biological Commission, was formed. The complicated relations between the Oceanographic Institution at the University of Goteborg, the Oceanographic Institute, and the Hydrographic-Biological Commission are explained. Some world- famous oceanographers and their works are presented. The Commission was dissolved in 1948 and the Board of Fisheries of Sweden was formed, taking over its responsibilities. The hydrographic investigations were assigned to the Hydrographic Department of the Board of Fisheries. The development of the Hydrographic Department and its transfer to the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute are described. The work of the Fisheries Bureau and the Navy Hydrographic Office are briefly explained.