Bathymetric/Hydrographic surveying is the practice of surveying physical underwater features of rivers, lakes and oceans as well as the foreshore. Depending on the scope of work we may employ a single beam echo sounder linked to our Real Time Kinematic GPS or Robotic Total Station providing Real Time depth output. This method is used for large bodies of water. The echo sounder is mounted to a boat or optionally an Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) for water bodies that are considered dangerous such as tailings ponds and rivers.  In other instances we have used weighted steel tapes and long rods with flat plate mounted on the bottom to physically measure the bottom of the water body. This method is ideal for smaller bodies of water like rivers and some reservoirs.

Okanagan Survey & Design has experience doing these types of surveys for Lakes, Rivers and Reservoirs. Our clients include Parks Canada, Ministry of Forests, Land and Natural Resources Operations (MFLNRO), Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen, Regional District of North Okanagan, Regional District of Kootenay Boundary, and the City of West Kelowna. These types of surveys are typically conducted as part of an engineering study for Dam Safety Reviews, Dam Break analysis, sediment buildup and monitoring, and design for structures such as wharfs, water parks, and safe harbours. Hydrographic surveys may be conducted by Engineering Surveyors, Engineering Companies, Land Surveying Companies, and Hydrologists.