Comparison with Single-Beam Bathymetry: While single-beam bathymetry provides dense data along each survey line, it fails to capture information between the lines, leading to gaps that must be interpolated. This can result in missed features, such as bathymetric highs, lows, or obstructions, which could be critical to the project. The width of these interpolation gaps depends on the spacing of survey lines, which could miss significant underwater objects, such as an automobile lying on the seabed.

In contrast, multi-beam bathymetry collects data in a swath perpendicular to the survey line, typically spanning 2-3 times the water depth. This allows for wider spacing between survey lines, with overlap ensuring 100% coverage. The resulting bathymetric data is exceptionally dense, both along and between survey lines, virtually eliminating the risk of missing critical features. Additionally, the 3D data from multi-beam surveys can provide dimensional sizes and shapes of underwater features, enhancing the ability to identify and assess them accurately.

Scott Waite is a certified hydrographer with over 30 years of experience conducting hydrographic and inspection surveys for public and private sector clients including the New York Power Authority, New York State DOT, New York State Thruway Authority, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and U.S. Coast Guard. Specializing in marine geophysical surveys and underwater inspections including bathymetric surveys and mapping, dam inspections, and volume computations, he has completed projects at intercoastal waterways, reservoirs, rivers, lakes, offshore, hydro/nuclear electric power plants and public water utilities.

Contact: swaite@prudenteng.com