Subsea acoustic sensors, including multibeam sonars and sub bottom profilers, provide users with a variety of data types to improve our understanding of the marine environment and effectively manage important resources. This includes bathymetry, which is a foundational layer for analysis, but also information on the bottom reflectivity to characterize sediment types, water column data to map mid-water material and organisims by providing a view from the sensor to the floor of our rivers and lakes, and the subsurface geology of the water bodies.  

Using highly portable acoustic sensors with integrated satellite and inertial positioning systems and related equipment, it is possible to acquire data in very shallow (< 1m) and traditionally hard to reach / remote environments. The equipment can be quickly mobilized on small craft and shallow draft platforms (e.g. aluminium ‘Jon boats’, rigid-hull inflatable boats, kayaks, etc. ) allowing for the collection of high-resolution and highly accurate data to map the bottom and sub-bottom of the water bodies and related infrastructure.  Alternatively, to minimize safety risks or to address other considerations, an Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) may provide a more suitable platform for the survey of ponds, lakes, rivers and more. This allows the project participants to operate the uncrewed platform safely from shore, while still acquiring the required data.

The time to acquire adequate data for a project area may be limited due to weather, budget and other influences. Regardless, it will always be beneficial to mobilize and collect the data in the most efficient manner by maximizing productivity through optimized data coverage and survey lines, and while ensuring data accuracy requirements are addressed.

Through the use of subsea acoustic sensors valuable information can be obtained to improve the use and management of resources, and extend the life of infrastructure through regular inspection surveys.  Bathymetry with derived values (e.g. slope and aspect) and bottom reflectance can provide valuable information to support the analysis of the river/lakebed. Water column provides a view between the water surface and bottom, and sub-bottom information allows us to understand the physical properties below the surface of the ground. This type of data can be used for a broad range of applications, including the study of ecosystems, the planning, design and maintenance of infrastructure, the identification of resources and much more.