Multibeam bathymetric data for regional assessment of marine geology

Abstract

Digital multibeam bathymetry has become the primary reconnaissance mapping tool used by the Geological Survey of Canada for marine geology surveys. Multibeam bathymetry and backscatter intensity data were collected as the first stage of several recent multiparameter geophysical surveys. The multibeam bathymetric data were used to create shaded relief images that depict seafloor morphology. Acoustic backscatter intensity measurements are used to determine the general distribution of coarse and fine sediments. The maps and images form the basis for the preliminary interpretation of geological processes and features, and are used to plan subsequent surveys using higher resolution sidescan sonar and seismic reflection systems to better define features identified on the multibeam data. Examples are presented from recent surveys in Atlantic Canada.