REMP project - Ridge geomorphic feature

The ridge geomorphic feature layer represents the spatial extent of the ridges of the worlds oceans based on interpretation of the SRTM30 plus v7 global bathymetry model. The layer is one of the 25 layers that make up the global seafloor geomorphic features map (Harris et.al. 2014). Ridges in this study are confined to “an isolated (or group of) elongated narrow elevation(s) of varying complexity having steep sides, often separating basin features” (IHO 2008). In this study “ridges” were confined to features greater than 1,000 m in relief and do not include the mid-ocean ridges, which was mapped as a separate feature. This data set has been used as one of the data inputs in the Atlantic REMP project. This project, funded by the European Union, worked together with stakeholders to produce a draft Regional Environmental Management Plan (REMP) for the Area in the North Atlantic, with a focus on the polymetallic sulphide deposits of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge which are of interest for deep-sea mining. There was close collaboration with the International Seabed Authority (ISA) and a consortium of scientific organisations. Marine data from multiple data services underpinned the environmental management plan development. A selection of the data sets is included in EMODnet Ingestion for wider distribution.