Hydrographic surveying of reservoirs using differential GPS navigation and GIS data analysis
- Pacific Gas and Electric Co., San Ramon, CA (United States)
In 1993 and 1994, the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) conducted hydrographic surveys on their Rock Creek and Cresta reservoirs. PG&E`s Rock Creek and Cresta reservoirs are located on the North Fork of the Feather River in northern California. Hydrographic surveys were conducted to determine sedimentation levels in the two reservoirs. This paper outlines PG&E`s efforts to monitor sedimentation levels from year-to-year. A survey-grade recording fathometer was used to record the reservoir depths. Survey vessel location was monitored using a Global Positioning System (GPS). Bathymetric contours and reservoir volumes were calculated using a Geographic Information System (GIS). This paper presents the methodology, results, and limitations of this technique for conducting hydrographic surveys. The results of the 1993 and 1994 hydrographic surveys and comparisons to a 1986 photogrammetric survey when the reservoirs were completely drawn down are presented. It is concluded that the GPS hydrographic survey methodology is an accurate and cost effective technique to monitor and address the long-term sediment balance in the reservoirs.
- OSTI ID:
- 220160
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-9507190--
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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