The Chesapeake Bay Interpretive Buoy System (CBIBS) combines real-time data streams from the buoys with multidisciplinary educational tools that interpret portions of the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail . These tools provide users with products and information they need to further protect, restore, and manage the Chesapeake Bay.

NCBO and its partners have deployed six buoys as part of CBIBS. Observations from the buoys are available on line as well as by toll-free phone (877-BUOY-BAY). CBIBS is an integral part of the Chesapeake Bay Observing System (CBOS) and a component of the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System .

NCBO is developing educational and interpretive components to enhance the real-time and archived data provided by CBIBS. Curriculum will include basic estuary modules and sections specifically focused on the Chesapeake Bay and data collected by the buoys. Additional curricula will highlight historical, cultural, and local stories related to the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail .

For more detailed information on CBIBS, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions.

The first CBIBS buoy was launched in late April 2007. These photos show the buoy as it is launched from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Norfolk District, Derrick Boat Elizabeth. High-resolution photos of all three buoy photos on this page are available; just click on the photo to link to the high-res version. All photos were taken by Patrick Bloodgood, U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, Norfolk District Public Affairs Office.