Hydrometrics

Bathymetric Data Collection

Brailey Hydrologic can provide high-resolution bathymetric data across Alaska, delivering accurate channel and waterbody mapping to support hydraulic modeling, aquatic studies, and infrastructure design.

 

Our capabilities include GPS-integrated sonar systems, ADCP-based depth and velocity measurements, and field data collection in rivers, lakes, and coastal environments.  We combine precise positioning with rigorous data processing to produce reliable bathymetric data and cross sections suitable for engineering analysis and regulatory applications.

Acoustic Doppler Discharge Measurements

Brailey Hydrologic has performed over 1,750 acoustic doppler current profiler (ADCP) measurements on flows as large as 1.5 million ft3/s.

 

Dave Brailey is the developer of the SonarCat, a lightweight survey vessel for measuring discharge, bathymetry, and velocity mapping on swiftwater streams. The SonarCat features a forward instrument mount that creates downpressure with increasing flow resistance. In contrast with tethered ADCPs, this geometry maintains acoustic contact at high flow velocities.

 

The SonarCat’s light weight and shallow draft allows flow measurement in depths as small as 1 foot, and it can be readily transported in small planes, small helicopters or via commercial air cargo. On smaller streams, Brailey Hydrologic uses tethered ADCPs deployed using temporary pulley systems.

Dye Dilution Discharge Measurements

Brailey Hydrologic uses fluorescent dye dilution to measure turbulent flows on steep creeks that are unsuitable for current meters and hydroacoustic measurements. On well-mixed, non-turbid streams, the technique allows rapid measurements with better precision than traditional methods and allows winter measurements without extensive ice drilling.