Technical
Bathymetric Survey
Definition
A bathymetric survey is the underwater equivalent of a topographic survey. It measures and maps the depth of a body of water, producing a contour plot of the bottom.
What it means in practice
Most residential bathymetric surveys use single-beam sonar mounted on a small skiff, traveling a grid pattern across the basin. The result is a depth plot tied to NAVD88 elevation, which can be compared to original permit drawings to determine how much sediment has accumulated.
Why it matters to you
Without a bathymetric survey, you don't actually know how much dredging your basin needs. Quotes given without a survey are estimates. The survey is also required for permit submission and for the post-dredge closeout.
Related terms
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