We have recently resumed side-scan sonar surveys to observe and classify bottom substrates at offshore reefs. This involves high-frequency sonar pings across a swath of the lake bed emanating from a torpedo-shaped “towfish” that is pulled behind the RV Sculpin. The return pings are processed and analyzed to provide an image of the lake bed, helping us to identify areas of contrasting substrates like sand, boulders, and bedrock.
