| EK60 Water Column Sonar Data Collected During NF-13-02-USVI |
| NF-13-02-USVI Mapping Essential Fish Habitat in the US Caribbean to Inform MPA Management
(EK60). Scientists will collect high resolution multibeam and acoustic fisheries data
in mid-water depths approximately 30 to 1000 meters so as to continue to characterize
seafloor habitats within all U.S. States, Territories, and Commonwealths. The objective
of this project is to collect a multibeam bathymetry dataset with 100% seafloor ensonification,
along with multibeam backscatter suitable for seafloor characterization. Fishery acoustics
data will be collected to characterize broad-scale fish abundance, biomass, and utilization
patterns, as well as to locate and document fish spawning aggregations. Multibeam
data will be collected to conform to IHO Order 1 (less than 100m) and Order 2 (>100m)
accuracy standards. The strategies developed for each survey area will take into account
the minimum depths, general bathymetry, and time allotment. The delineation and identification
of seafloor habitats will be assisted by the use of a moderate-depth Remotely Operated
Vehicle (ROV) and drop camera. The vehicle has video and frame camera capability to
depths of 300 meters and will be used for point sampling within areas mapped during
this mission. |
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