Best Practices in Hydrographic Surveying
This online engineering PDH course delivers a comprehensive reference for conducting precise measurements in river and reservoir environments.
This course demonstrates the technical deployment of advanced surveying technology, including Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) GPS, Virtual Reference Networks (VRN), and robotic total stations to establish high-accuracy horizontal and vertical positioning. Field-focused instructions cover the operation of single beam and multibeam echosounders, emphasizing critical system calibrations such as compass "dances" and patch tests to resolve mounting angle biases. Furthermore, this course illustrates the workflow for processing complex hydro-acoustic datasets using specialized software suites like SRH-HAPS and HYPACK to generate finished bathymetric maps and depth profiles.
In addition, this course outlines standardized protocols for discharge measurements utilizing Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCP) and electromagnetic velocity meters. It provides essential "rules of thumb" for selecting suitable measurement sites and managing challenging hydraulic conditions like moving beds or high turbulence. This course includes technical details to enhance data integrity through rigorous quality assurance checks and automated filtering methods, based on experience and commonly accepted practices in the hydrographic surveying profession.
This 9 PDH online course is applicable to civil engineers, surveyors, as well as other technical professionals who are interested in learning more about best practices in hydrographic surveying.
This PE continuing education course is intended to provide you with the following specific knowledge and skills:
- Configuring and leveling high-precision surveying hardware, including RTK GPS base stations and robotic total stations, to ensure reliable real-time positioning
- Executing underwater depth sounding surveys using single beam and multibeam acoustic systems while accounting for sound velocity variations in the water column
- Performing essential field calibrations, such as magnetic compass adjustments and multibeam patch tests, to quantify and correct residual sensor biases
- Understanding raw bathymetric and velocity data through specialized software to interpret point clouds and generate Triangular Irregular Network (TIN) surface models
- Calculating stream discharge by applying standardized ADCP measurement techniques and troubleshooting environmental factors like moving-bed conditions
- Applying quality assurance reviews to field records and automated data filters to validate the accuracy of hydro-acoustic measurements
Upon successful completion of the quiz, print your Certificate of Completion instantly. (Note: if you are paying by check or money order, you will be able to print it after we receive your payment.) For your convenience, we will also email it to you. Please note that you can log in to your account at any time to access and print your Certificate of Completion.