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Deep Seabed Mineral Resources

NOAA maps and characterizes deep seabed mineral resources and issues licenses and permits for their exploration and recovery.

Remotely operated vehicle traverses over an extensive field of polymetallic nodules on the deep sea floor. Credit: NOAA.

Deep Seabed Hard Minerals Mining

The Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act charges NOAA with the responsibility for issuing to U.S. companies licenses for exploration and permits for commercial recovery of polymetallic nodules.

Multibeam bathymetry data in an array of colors that reveals complex seafloor features.

Mapping the Seafloor for Critical Mineral Resources

NOAA’s Office of Coast Survey delivers hydrographic surveys and maps the seafloor. Explore how this work will stimulate further exploration, research, and management projects.