A recent study in the September issue of the Journal of Coastal Research discusses the challenges of mapping coastal environments and describes how the researchers overcame these obstacles. In this study, the authors used a combined-technique approach to map the coastal coral reef habitat in Broward County in southeastern Florida to a depth of 35 m.

Different techniques were needed due to depth variation and poor water clarity. To obtain a detailed and accurate map, the highest resolution data technique was used as the foundation. Then, the results of the other techniques were overlaid on the foundation map to present the combined map of the subtidal floor.

The results of the maps allowed the authors to identify 17 different habitat classifications as defined by the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). The habitats were aggregated into three linear reef complexes: outer, middle, and inner. The classifications and accuracy results were comparable to similar NOAA Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands mapping efforts.

The accuracy of the individual mapping techniques, as well as the accuracy of the combined approach, were evaluated in the study. As the authors write, "the combination of these data types yielded a more accurate map than any single method (e.g., laser bathymetry or the acoustic data) separately." The combined mapping techniques yielded an accuracy of 89.6 percent.

Ideally, the best representation of coastal habitats would be achieved by aerial photography in crystal clear, shallow waters. Since the coastal habitats vary in depth and clarity, combined mapping techniques can be used in areas where photo interpretation alone is not feasible.

"Mapping Coral Reef Habitats in Southeast Florida Using a Combined Technique Approach", Journal of Coastal Research, Volume 24, Issue 5, September 2008. Published by Allen Press.

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