All basic environmental data should be submitted to the DMO for inclusion in the DMS within 6 months of sample collection or instrument retrieval. Some restrictions may be placed on use, at the discretion of the PI who collected the data. It is critical that all PIs who use these data cite the originators of the data, even if no restrictions apply to its use. There is also a substantial body of historical data that would increase the value of the DMS and should be submitted promptly. When situations exist that prevent submittal of data at this time, then the existence of the data should be acknowledged to the DMO so that the community is aware of on-going work and a best effort should be made to submit the data as soon as possible thereafter.
Data normally becomes publicly available for use without restriction two years after origination.
It is expected that all users will properly acknowledge the source of the data. From these principles we identify a series of responsibilities for principal investigator and chief scientists and for the data management office. Each Chief Scientist should distribute these data to cruise participants for their own use, with the data labeled preliminary. Final versions of basic environmental data should be submitted to the DMO for inclusion in the DMS within 6 months of sample collection or instrument retrieval. However, it is expected that published works will cite the originator and will be sent to him or her for prior review.