Topic outline

  • Hydrographic Surveys - Manual Depth Measuring Techniques

    Credits: 1 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    Manual depth measurement techniques are used for many under water engineering and construction applications. These methods include use of hand lead lines, topographic level rods, 2-m GPS poles, and sounding poles. Manual methods are generally used where more efficient acoustic methods cannot provide adequate depth data or sufficient detail. Manual depth measurement techniques are simply a variation of conventional topographic survey methods. However, unlike land-based topographic surveys, the geophysical properties of the bottom are not always visible or consistent.  

    Examples include: surveys of areas adjacent to piers, bulkheads, and offshore pile structures; near locks, dams, power plants, and river control structures subject to turbulence; detailed surveys of rock jetties and breakwaters; beach and dune profile surveys; surveys in shallow detention or retention ponds or water conservation pools; surveys in shallow wetland areas with thick bottom vegetation or mangrove; and surveys in areas where unconsolidated sediments are present.

    Topics:

    • General Scope and Applications
    • Lead Line or Sounding Disk Measurement
    • Line Marking, Lead Type and Dimensions
    • Use of Mushroom Anchor, Sound Disk
    • Calibration
    • Use of Sounding Pole
    • Operational Procedures
    • Manual Depth Measurement Accuracy and Quality Control Criteria

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.
         NOTE: After the exam is completed, you will need to return to this page, in order to print (download) the certificate of completion.

    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended for surveying and engineering professional whose job description may require a general knowledge of simple manual depth measuring procedures.
    Publication Source: USACE

    Donald Parnell, PE

    • Topic 1