Bathymetric Mapping
The OWRB’s bathymetric mapping program utilizes GIS and related technology to provide accurate determinations of the current storage capacities in the state’s reservoirs. Geographic Positioning System (GPS) and acoustic depth sounding instruments are incorporated into hydrographic survey vessels. Contour maps are then derived from the collected data points and digital lake bottom surface models. Obtaining accurate storage volumes for lakes is an integral tool for water resources managers as well as state and federal partners, for water quality assessments, TMDL development, dam breach analysis, watershed monitoring and management, determining the amount of water a lake can yield in the driest of times (reliable yield), water rights availability analysis, and monitoring sedimentation rates.
