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Hydrographic Survey

Marine Science Meets Survey Expertise

Vanguards in hydrographic survey using multibeam and singlebeam sonar with inertially-aided positioning.
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WHAT WE DO

Our hydrographic expertise includes the most challenging of aquatic environments from shallowest inland waters to the deep ocean. Using our fleet of calibrated survey vessels or aboard ships offshore, we provide our clients with high resolution bathymetric, acoustic backscatter, and water column data that strictly adhere to the highest IHO, USACE and NOAA charting standards. 

Research surveys

Vessel Fleet >>

Sand search

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Offshore Wind

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NV5 has held the Esri Platinum Partner status in the Esri Partner Network since 2010 and maintains seven Esri specialty designations,  NV5’s staff are experienced and maintain key certifications across the Esri environment. 
Not All Boats are Created Equal – The Importance of Dedicated Marine Survey Vessels for Offshore Wind Siting

Learn how NV5 utilizes their dedicated fleet to perform deep sea and nearshore bathymetric survey in the latest issue of Ocean News & Technology Learn more
NV5 recognized by MAPPS for outstanding work in coastal resiliency via bathymetry mapping in Laguna Madre, TX

NV5 earned the Excellence Award in Surveying/Field Data Collection, announced at the 2023 MAPPS Winter Conference. Learn more
NOAA Selects NV5 for Extensive Hydrographic Survey in North Carolina

A task order features unique survey approach to deliver valuable charting data that will also support environmental and coastal resilience efforts. Learn more

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Technical Expertise

Multi-Beam Echosounder

Determines the geometry of the seafloor, shoals, hardbottoms, and other features and object detections.

Multibeam echosounder

Measures and converts the time high frequency acoustic waves, which are emitted and reflected off the seafloor.

Sub bottom Profiler

Reveals the architecture of the sub bottom, and zones where beach sand may be present.

Sub bottom profiler

Acoustic signal penetrates the seafloor and “reflects” back when/where density changes are present in the sub bottom.

side scan sonar

Describes the sediment texture of the seafloor & identifies sand waves, shoals, shipwrecks, rock outcrops, hardbottoms, UXOs/munitions, marine debris.

side scan sonar

Measures the intensity of the acoustic return signal.

Transverse Gradiometer

Identifies and surveys cultural resource sites such as ship & aircraft wrecks. Characterizes minerology. TVG is an industry standard and widely used in UXO/munition surveys.

Transverse Gradiometer

Magnetometers measure changes in Earth’s magnetic field. TVG measures magnetic gradient in one dimension by subtracting the difference between two sensors and since the Earth’s magnetic field is 3-dimensional, three independent gradient directions can be measured.

Shoreline Mapping and Topographic Survey

Using topobathymetric lidar, processing algorithms, feature extraction, and photogrammetric tools, we model shoreline topography, map the land water interface, and depict coastal features with high detail and accuracy for effective nautical charting, resource management, urban development, land management, infrastructure maintenance, and emergency response. View some of our Topographic projects here.

Benthic Habitat Mapping

From topobathymetric lidar data and innovative processing tools, we can classify benthic and submerged environments (seagrass, kelp beds, algae, coral reefs) to identify critical habitat for marine species and facilitate effective resource management. Our radiometric calibration of lidar intensities is a significant contributor to mapping the underwater environment and sea floor.

Hydrology, Hydraulics, and Inundation

High-resolution lidar data improves flood hazard maps; predictive flood, storm surge, and tsunami inundation maps; and hydrologic and hydraulic modeling within coastal catchments. Our data is advancing coastal intelligence and resiliency to better protect and prepare communities and shoreline resources in a dynamic coastal environment.

Coastal Land Cover & Change Analysis

With the aid of recurring surveys and temporal comparisons, our trend analyses quantify, model, and visualize important changes taking place along coastal environments. Detecting and quantifying these patterns empowers planners and resource managers to accurately evaluate, respond, monitor, predict or mitigate change, improving knowledge and enhancing preparedness.

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We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. We ensure nondiscrimination in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI of the United States Civil Rights Act of 1964. If you need more information or special assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, contact MaryJo OBrien at (954) 495-2112. Persons with hearing-and speech-impairments can contact the NV5 by using the Virginia Relay Service, a toll-free telecommunication device for the deaf (TDD). Call 711 for TTY/TDD.
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Hyperspectral Imaging - Technically Speaking

Our internal innovation and development team constantly analyzes new technology and develops solutions to meet our client’s challenges. Our Technically Speaking series is one way we share our technical findings with the professional community. 

Please tell us a little about yourself by filling out the form below, and we’ll share the document with you, thanks!

Accuracy Part 1- Technically Speaking

Our internal innovation and development team constantly analyzes new technology and develops solutions to meet our client’s challenges. Our Technically Speaking series is one way we share our technical findings with the professional community. 

Please tell us a little about yourself by filling out the form below, and we’ll share the document with you, thanks!

Prune Optimization Webinar Recording

NV5 Geospatial releases a new predictive modeling platform for vegetation management that uses existing lidar and historical data to identify the relative level of asset risk from trees by quantifying the potential for causing asset damage. 

Please tell us a little about yourself by filling out the form below, and we’ll share the document with you, thanks!

Topobathy Lidar - Technically Speaking

Our internal innovation and development team constantly analyzes new technology and develops solutions to meet our client’s challenges. Our Technically Speaking series is one way we share our technical findings with the professional community. 

Please tell us a little about yourself by filling out the form below, and we’ll share the document with you, thanks!

Contact Geospatial

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