An improved method for mapping oyster bottom using a global positioning system and an acoustic profiler

Date

1992 1992 May 12

Authors

Simons JD
Powell EN
Song J
Soniat TM

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Abstract

A method for rapidly and relatively inexpensively mapping oyster bottom is described. 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: use 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 (<1 m) or deep (>10 m) water, accurate and precise navigation. The method has been used successfully to map the oyster reefs and oyster bottom of Galveston Bay, Texas, USA an area of approximately 1000 km super(2)

Description

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Keywords

ASW,USA,Texas,Galveston Bay, Crassostrea virginica, Galveston Bay, mapping, Navigation, oyster reefs, positioning systems, Q1 01566 Fishery charts,grounds and water areas, Q1 01583 Shellfish culture, Q2 02385 Hydrographic survey and cartography, Q3 01583 Shellfish culture, reefs, Shellfish, sub-bottom profiling, Texas, USA, water, Weather

Citation