Powell, Erin N.Jensen, Richard W. Russell W. Kiesling, and Frank S. ShipleyProceedings: The Second State of the Bay Symposium. February 4 - 6, 19932010-02-152010-02-151993http://hdl.handle.net/1969.3/24133pgs. 207-209The purpose of this GBNEP study is to describe the status and trends of oyster populations in Galveston Bay. To do so required the development of a new mapping method designed to discriminate oyster reefs from other bottom types rapidly, accurately, and inexpensively. The method uses an acoustic profiler to differentiate substrate type, a fathometer to assess bottom relief and a global positioning system to accurately establish position. The method has the following desirable traits: can be performed from a small research vessel, usable in most weather conditions, requires only a two-person crew, rapidly discriminates bottom type while underway, usable in shallow (<1m) or deep (>10m) water, and provides accurate and precise navigation.oyster reefsoyster culturemappingdata collectionsChapter