Shallow-Water Bathymetry
Data Specifications
- Area of Coverage: Targeted bay and estuary systems or individual river reaches
- Dates Available: Vary by location, ranging from 2003 to 2009
- Format: ESRI GRID and GeoTiff
- Resolution/Scale: Less than 1 meter
- Accuracy: Varies by project, usually within 10 meters. Vertical accuracy is less than 1 meter.
Overview
Shallow-water bathymetry is acquired through the use of interferometric side-scan sonar surveying. Collected as part of environmental studies, these data show the locations of shellfish beds, channels, shoals, and basins. This information improves understanding of water circulation patterns and other estuarine processes. Although collected through the NOAA Coastal Services Center, these data should not be confused with NOAA charting bathymetry, which is produced under more stringent requirements.