Developments in Survey Technology and its Applications to Freshwater Environments
Annual Conference
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The latest survey sensors capable of capturing high resolution data, combined with survey expertise, processing and visulisation software, are now being used to map freshwater environments. High density point cloud data acquired through simultaneous and seamless data collection techniques is now possible above and below the waterline. The Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Programme is working to protect and restore the water quality in twelve Rotorua lakes. Since 2014 the University of Waikato (UoW) and Discovery Marine Ltd (DML) have been using a high resolution Multibeam Echo Sounder (MBES) to accurately survey a number of the lakes. A practical and flexible approach was adopted to enable effective use of commercial resources to produce 3D bathymetric surfaces of the lake beds.
High resolution mapping of Watercare’s fresh water reservoirs using MBES and Laser Scanners has enabled the production of 3D fly throughs revealing remarkable detail of the flooded terrain. It has provided Watercare with a baseline data set from which to better understand their assets and the impact of the environment.
This paper provides an overview of the technology, processes and deliverables for these two projects demonstrating the wider applicability of the technology to support regulatory compliance, asset management and environmental planning.