One of the primary strengths of the kriging process in EcoSound is
that it takes irregularly spaced data points and creates a smooth GIS raster map based
on the geostatistical properties of the input data. This allows apples-to-apples
comparisons of multiple surveys that covered the same general area, but vary in their
transect design and precise location.
The following considerations may be of use to users planning to survey
a waterbody:
- If known, areas of high bottom or plant complexity should be sampled more
intensivelythan gently sloping or homogeneous areas.
- Often, shallow areas of lakes are more complex than deep areas. Therefore,
narrowertransect spacing is recommended in shallow areas than in deep
areas.
- Gently weaving in and out while travelling parallel to shore along changing
slopesallows the algorithm to better pattern depth and reduce bottom loss in
shallowdensely vegetated habitats.
- In most environments, we recommend users employ a variety of transect designs
(e.g.,perpendicular and parallel to shore, concentric circles) where possible to
account forthe various ways bottom topography and plant growth varies within a
lake. Usersshould experiment with different designs and merges and go with the
design thatproduces the best output for their needs.