Key Activities

For additional information click on of the these tabs

  • Co-Operative Charting
  • Vessel Safety Check
  • Merit Marks

Co-Operative Charting

Cooperative Charting Program of the United States Power Squadrons is conducted in close coordination with the Marine Chart Division, National Ocean Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce. The Program is a major public service of USPS. Under it, members supply information leading to corrections to nautical charts, small craft charts, Coast Pilot publications and formerly, Small Craft Facilities.

The Aid To Navigation Inspection program allows for damaged or misplaced aids to be reported. Cape Lookout Sail & Power Squadron adoption of the Adopt-A-Chart subprogram led to the naming of "Power Squadron Spit" at Cape Lookout.. This was done in recognition of the Neuse River Chart (11552) being kept up to date,

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Vessel Safety Check

The United States Power Squadron Vessel Safety Check is a free courtesy check of a vessel's safety equipment for compliancewith federal, state, and local safety requirements. Inspectors who complete the minimum vessel inspections (ten per year) earn a Merit Mark.

An explanation of the vessel inspection process is available on our website. link

Merit Marks

A merit mark is the only pay we get for the contributions we make to USPS. Of all the awards conveyed by the organization, the merit mark is the most prestigious. It may be only a small gold bar to adorn our uniform but its significance is greatly coveted. Indeed, five merit marks bring senior member status and 25 merit marks accord a member life membership, exempt from national dues.

A merit mark is awarded to a member by the Chief Commander based upon a recommendation by the member’s squadron commander. The following link describes some of the activities that are considered when recommending some one for a merit mark.