Property Owner Association Uses Hydrographic & Sediment Surveys to Create Strategic Sediment Removal Plan – Resulting in Hundreds of Thousands in Savings

The Mapping Network Hydrographic Survey Team exceeds expectations for Property Owner Association.

Overview:  A lake property association (POA) has been dealing directly with the challenges associated with sedimentation in their lakes for over 20 years.  In 2002 The Board of Directors created a 30 year sediment removal and management plan (2002-2031).  They looked at 3 different options: A) hiring a dredging professional, B) leasing dredging equipment and use current POA staff to operate, or C) purchasing a new dredge and using POA staff to operate.  They contacted two environmental consultants for cost estimates over the 30 year process.  The estimates ranged from $1,000,000 to $5,000,000 which left the POA in a difficult position of trying to make a long term management decision based on wide ranging potential costs.  In the end the POA decided to purchase their own dredging equipment an utilize existing staff and volunteers to operated the equipment.

In House Accountability Challenges:  After nearly a decade of in house dredging the POA Board of Directors was unable to quantify and verify results.  When reviewing the budget requests from the lakes and dam committee, they realized they were spending a lot of resources without having clear information on how successful the sediment removal process had been over the years.

New Vision:  The POA decided they needed to quantify the sediment problem to create a sustainable sediment management plan.  The president of the board spearheaded an effort to get a hydrographic and sediment survey completed.  The president contacted several hydrographic survey companies and chose The Mapping Network to provide this service based on experience in the industry and listening to the needs of the POA.

Lake Survey Purpose:  The primary objective of the hydrographic and sediment survey was to better understand the condition of the lake by charting the existing lake contours along with mapping the sediment thickness throughout the lake.  Once the mapping process was completed the POA was able to identify areas that needed dredging and how much material was there.  This allows for much better budgeting and accountability.

Results: The POA was excited to have information based on real numbers (lake and sediment survey).  The hydrographic survey results are an essential part of the decision making process with regards to the sediment removal planning.  After 20 years of dredging and several studies performed by consultants they felt for the first time they finally understood the problem and how to manage it.  Now they have real information, which gives them a clear picture of what to do in the future.

Future: Members of the POA say they will completely change course by finishing up the current in house dredging work and then sell all dredging equipment.  They will then work with a  professional dredging contractor to clean out specified problem areas identified during the hydrographic survey process.  Understanding the true extent of the lake sediment distribution in the lake will save the POA an estimated $200,000 to $300,000 in costs by selling unnecessary equipment and strategic dredging planning.  The POA will be using the hydrographic survey information as a baseline for all future work and will adjust the map as dredging continues.

Conclusion:  In the end the primary problem facing the POA was not the sediment in the lake but rather not knowing the facts about the lake to make the best decisions.  The POA now has the facts needed to create a comprehensive plan that will accurately represent the work being completed.  Plus members have a wonderful contour map to assist with fishing!

The Mapping Network surveyed the bottom of the lake including the sediment depths. This map shows the lake water depth as blue contours lines as well as a color shaded sediment thickness. This specialized technology allows the POA to easily locate problem areas.

The Mapping Network is an industry leader in Hydrographic Surveys, Bathymetry, Geographic Information Systems Consulting, Data Conversion, and GPS Data Collection.  We specialize in terrain and sub-surface (bathymetry) GPS mapping.   If you are serious about maintaining  a high-quality golf course, lake or pond, be sure you have the ability to make the best decisions,  get your resource mapped by the professionals at The Mapping Network.   Give us a call or send an e-mail to find out more details.

phone:  (402) 241-8177

e-mail: info@themappingnetwork.com

website: www.themappingnetwork.com

Check out The Mapping Network on Facebook for more examples and success stories!

The Mapping Network is proud to announce their firm has been chosen by Cabela’s, the World’s Foremost Outfitter, as a Landowner Services provider for Cabela’s Trophy Properties throughout the United States.  Visit us on the Cabela’s Trophy Properties website >> click here

The Mapping Network:  www.TheMappingNetwork.com

A Nationwide Network of GPS Mapping Professionals

Property Owner Association Uses Hydrographic & Sediment Surveys to Create Strategic Sediment Removal Plan

The Mapping Network Hydrographic Survey Team exceeds expectations for Property Owner Association.

Sediment problems are inevitable in all lakes and at some point removal is required.  Lake dredging and/or excavation can be an expensive process and requires accurate planning to be as cost-efficient as possible.   A lake Property Owners Association (POA) had been dealing directly with the challenges associated with sedimentation in their lake.  The POA decided they needed to quantify the sediment problem to create a sustainable sediment management plan.  The president of the board spearheaded an effort to get a hydrographic and sediment survey completed.  The president contacted several hydrographic survey companies and chose The Mapping Network to provide this service based on experience in the industry and listening to the needs of the POA.

Lake Survey Purpose:  The primary objective of the hydrographic and sediment survey was to better understand the condition of the lake by charting the existing lake contours along with mapping the sediment thickness throughout the lake.  Once the mapping process was completed the POA was able to identify areas that needed dredging and how much material was there.  This allows for much better budgeting and accountability.

Results:  The POA was excited to have information based on real numbers (lake and sediment survey).  The hydrographic survey results are an essential part of the decision making process with regards to the sediment removal planning.  Now they have real information, which gives them a clear picture of what to do in the future.

Action Plan:   The POA has hired a professional dredging contractor to clean out specified problem areas identified during the hydrographic survey process.  The POA will be using the hydrographic survey information as a baseline for all future work and will adjust the map as dredging wraps up.  In the end the primary problem facing the POA was not simply the sediment in the lake but rather not knowing the facts about the lake to make the best decisions.  The POA now has the facts needed to create a comprehensive plan that will accurately represent the work being completed.  Plus members have a wonderful contour map to assist with fishing!

The Mapping Network surveyed the bottom of the lake including the sediment depths. This map shows the lake water depth as blue contours lines as well as a color shaded sediment thickness. This specialized technology allows the POA to easily locate problem areas.

The Mapping Network is an industry leader in Hydrographic Surveys, Bathymetry, Geographic Information Systems Consulting, Data Conversion, and GPS Data Collection.  We specialize in terrain and sub-surface (bathymetry) GPS mapping.   If you are serious about maintaining  a high-quality golf course, lake or pond, be sure you have the ability to make the best decisions,  get your resource mapped by the professionals at The Mapping Network.   Give us a call or send an e-mail to find out more details.

phone:  (402) 241-8177

e-mail: info@themappingnetwork.com

website: www.themappingnetwork.com

Check out The Mapping Network on Facebook for more examples and success stories!

The Mapping Network is proud to announce their firm has been chosen by Cabela’s, the World’s Foremost Outfitter, as a Landowner Services provider for Cabela’s Trophy Properties throughout the United States.  Visit us on the Cabela’s Trophy Properties website >> click here

The Mapping Network:  www.TheMappingNetwork.com

A Nationwide Network of GPS Mapping Professionals

Property Owner Association Uses Hydrographic & Sediment Surveys to Create Strategic Sediment Removal Plan

The Mapping Network Hydrographic Survey Team exceeds expectations for Property Owner Association.

Sediment problems are inevitable in all lakes and at some point removal is required.  Lake dredging and/or excavation can be an expensive process and requires accurate planning to be as cost-efficient as possible.   A lake Property Owners Association (POA) had been dealing directly with the challenges associated with sedimentation in their lake.  The POA decided they needed to quantify the sediment problem to create a sustainable sediment management plan.  The president of the board spearheaded an effort to get a hydrographic and sediment survey completed.  The president contacted several hydrographic survey companies and chose The Mapping Network to provide this service based on experience in the industry and listening to the needs of the POA.

Lake Survey Purpose:  The primary objective of the hydrographic and sediment survey was to better understand the condition of the lake by charting the existing lake contours along with mapping the sediment thickness throughout the lake.  Once the mapping process was completed the POA was able to identify areas that needed dredging and how much material was there.  This allows for much better budgeting and accountability.

Results:  The POA was excited to have information based on real numbers (lake and sediment survey).  The hydrographic survey results are an essential part of the decision making process with regards to the sediment removal planning.  Now they have real information, which gives them a clear picture of what to do in the future.

Action Plan:   The POA has hired a professional dredging contractor to clean out specified problem areas identified during the hydrographic survey process.  The POA will be using the hydrographic survey information as a baseline for all future work and will adjust the map as dredging wraps up.  In the end the primary problem facing the POA was not simply the sediment in the lake but rather not knowing the facts about the lake to make the best decisions.  The POA now has the facts needed to create a comprehensive plan that will accurately represent the work being completed.  Plus members have a wonderful contour map to assist with fishing!

The Mapping Network surveyed the bottom of the lake including the sediment depths. This map shows the lake water depth as blue contours lines as well as a color shaded sediment thickness. This specialized technology allows the POA to easily locate problem areas.

The Mapping Network is an industry leader in Hydrographic Surveys, Bathymetry, Geographic Information Systems Consulting, Data Conversion, and GPS Data Collection.  We specialize in terrain and sub-surface (bathymetry) GPS mapping.   If you are serious about maintaining  a high-quality golf course, lake or pond, be sure you have the ability to make the best decisions,  get your resource mapped by the professionals at The Mapping Network.   Give us a call or send an e-mail to find out more details.

phone:  (402) 241-8177

e-mail: info@themappingnetwork.com

website: www.themappingnetwork.com

Check out The Mapping Network on Facebook for more examples and success stories!

The Mapping Network is proud to announce their firm has been chosen by Cabela’s, the World’s Foremost Outfitter, as a Landowner Services provider for Cabela’s Trophy Properties throughout the United States.  Visit us on the Cabela’s Trophy Properties website >> click here

The Mapping Network:  www.TheMappingNetwork.com

A Nationwide Network of GPS Mapping Professionals

Property Owner Association Uses Hydrographic & Sediment Surveys to Create Strategic Sediment Removal Plan – Resulting in Hundreds of Thousands in Savings

The Mapping Network Hydrographic Survey Team exceeds expectations for Property Owner Association.

Overview:  A lake property association (POA) has been dealing directly with the challenges associated with sedimentation in their lakes for over 20 years.  In 2002 The Board of Directors created a 30 year sediment removal and management plan (2002-2031).  They looked at 3 different options: A) hiring a dredging professional, B) leasing dredging equipment and use current POA staff to operate, or C) purchasing a new dredge and using POA staff to operate.  They contacted two environmental consultants for cost estimates over the 30 year process.  The estimates ranged from $1,000,000 to $5,000,000 which left the POA in a difficult position of trying to make a long term management decision based on wide ranging potential costs.  In the end the POA decided to purchase their own dredging equipment an utilize existing staff and volunteers to operated the equipment.

In House Accountability Challenges:  After nearly a decade of in house dredging the POA Board of Directors was unable to quantify and verify results.  When reviewing the budget requests from the lakes and dam committee, they realized they were spending a lot of resources without having clear information on how successful the sediment removal process had been over the years.

New Vision:  The POA decided they needed to quantify the sediment problem to create a sustainable sediment management plan.  The president of the board spearheaded an effort to get a hydrographic and sediment survey completed.  The president contacted several hydrographic survey companies and chose The Mapping Network to provide this service based on experience in the industry and listening to the needs of the POA.

Lake Survey Purpose:  The primary objective of the hydrographic and sediment survey was to better understand the condition of the lake by charting the existing lake contours along with mapping the sediment thickness throughout the lake.  Once the mapping process was completed the POA was able to identify areas that needed dredging and how much material was there.  This allows for much better budgeting and accountability.

Results: The POA was excited to have information based on real numbers (lake and sediment survey).  The hydrographic survey results are an essential part of the decision making process with regards to the sediment removal planning.  After 20 years of dredging and several studies performed by consultants they felt for the first time they finally understood the problem and how to manage it.  Now they have real information, which gives them a clear picture of what to do in the future.

Future: Members of the POA say they will completely change course by finishing up the current in house dredging work and then sell all dredging equipment.  They will then work with a  professional dredging contractor to clean out specified problem areas identified during the hydrographic survey process.  Understanding the true extent of the lake sediment distribution in the lake will save the POA an estimated $200,000 to $300,000 in costs by selling unnecessary equipment and strategic dredging planning.  The POA will be using the hydrographic survey information as a baseline for all future work and will adjust the map as dredging continues.

Conclusion:  In the end the primary problem facing the POA was not the sediment in the lake but rather not knowing the facts about the lake to make the best decisions.  The POA now has the facts needed to create a comprehensive plan that will accurately represent the work being completed.  Plus members have a wonderful contour map to assist with fishing!

The Mapping Network surveyed the bottom of the lake including the sediment depths. This map shows the lake water depth as blue contours lines as well as a color shaded sediment thickness. This specialized technology allows the POA to easily locate problem areas.

The Mapping Network is an industry leader in Hydrographic Surveys, Bathymetry, Geographic Information Systems Consulting, Data Conversion, and GPS Data Collection.  We specialize in terrain and sub-surface (bathymetry) GPS mapping.   If you are serious about maintaining  a high-quality golf course, lake or pond, be sure you have the ability to make the best decisions,  get your resource mapped by the professionals at The Mapping Network.   Give us a call or send an e-mail to find out more details.

phone:  (402) 241-8177

e-mail: info@themappingnetwork.com

website: www.themappingnetwork.com

Check out The Mapping Network on Facebook for more examples and success stories!

The Mapping Network is proud to announce their firm has been chosen by Cabela’s, the World’s Foremost Outfitter, as a Landowner Services provider for Cabela’s Trophy Properties throughout the United States.  Visit us on the Cabela’s Trophy Properties website >> click here

The Mapping Network:  www.TheMappingNetwork.com

A Nationwide Network of GPS Mapping Professionals

Budget Time for Hydrographic and Sediment Surveys

It’s Budget Season!  

Don’t Forget About the Pond!

By SOLitude Lake Management  www.solitudelakemanagement.com

*Do you know if dredging is in your future?

*Do you know how much time you have before your dredging project will begin?

*Do you have a plan in place to deal with the cost and  the logistics of such a large project?

Important Things to Remember When Preparing Your 2013 Budget

1. Annual Pond Maintenance to make certain that your pond is receiving care year round.
2. Adding Aeration (fountain or aerator) if your pond does not currently have a functioning aeration system.
3. Adding Annual Aeration (fountain or aerator) maintenance. Even if these items are under warranty, maintenance is still needed. (Think of the care you give your car motor.)
4. Funds to enhance your maintenance program with fish stocking, mosquito control, holiday lighting, or other services as desired.
5. A bathymetric and sedimentation study of the pond. We recommend that this is performed at least every five (5) years in conjunction with your Reserve Study to reveal changes in the pond.
6. An appropriate contribution to your Reserve Account for the eventual replacement of the pond’s aeration (fountain or aerator) system.
7. An appropriate contribution to your Reserve Account for the eventual need to dredge your pond.

In the maps above, the HOA needed the depths of the cove to be a minimum of 4 foot for boat access. Mapping Network located the areas where the current depth was less than four feet, which was the dredging zone. The Mapping Network calculated the dredging area and volume. The current lake bathymetry (left) and the post-dredge contours (middle)are shown in blue shading. A cut-fill model (right) shows areas of cut needed to reach the goal.

Your Knowledge May be Beneath the Surface

Dredging is one of the most costly projects that a community or pond owner will incur during the life of a pond. Proper planning for a dredging project could mean cost savings. SŌLitude Lake Management recommends that you have a bathymetric study and sedimentation study periodically to make certain that the shape of your pond isn’t changing more rapidly than you are anticipating. Having the study performed on a regular basis will help to establish patterns and will assist in determining the size, magnitude and timing of dredging projects.

It is important to keep as many records on your pond as possible. A history of services, plans, bathymetry and major weather events is a good tool. If you have the original “as built” plans, they can be used to help determine the rate at which the pond is “filling in”. However, a better way to determine this is a sediment survey which measures the build-up and thickness of the sediment in your pond. A sediment survey can point out patterns and masses of build-up that can allow for a more focused dredge rather than a full-scale project.

Contact us today regarding bathymetry and sediment mapping for your pond. Knowing what lies beneath the surface is important for planning the future!

The Mapping Network surveyed the bottom of the lake including the sediment depths. This map shows the lake water depth as blue contours lines as well as a color shaded sediment thickness. This specialized technology allows the POA to easily locate problem areas.

The Mapping Network is an industry leader in Hydrographic Surveys, Bathymetry, Geographic Information Systems Consulting, Data Conversion, and GPS Data Collection.  We specialize in terrain and sub-surface (bathymetry) GPS mapping.   If you are serious about maintaining  a high-quality golf course, lake or pond, be sure you have the ability to make the best decisions,  get your resource mapped by the professionals at The Mapping Network.   Give us a call or send an e-mail to find out more details.

phone:  (402) 241-8177

e-mail: info@themappingnetwork.com

website: www.themappingnetwork.com

Check out The Mapping Network on Facebook for more examples and success stories!

The Mapping Network is proud to announce their firm has been chosen by Cabela’s, the World’s Foremost Outfitter, as a Landowner Services provider for Cabela’s Trophy Properties throughout the United States.  Visit us on the Cabela’s Trophy Properties website >> click here

The Mapping Network:  www.TheMappingNetwork.com

A Nationwide Network of GPS Mapping Professionals

Budget Time for Hydrographic and Sediment Surveys

It’s Budget Season!  

Don’t Forget About the Pond!

By SOLitude Lake Management  www.solitudelakemanagement.com

*Do you know if dredging is in your future?

*Do you know how much time you have before your dredging project will begin?

*Do you have a plan in place to deal with the cost and  the logistics of such a large project?

Important Things to Remember When Preparing Your 2013 Budget

1. Annual Pond Maintenance to make certain that your pond is receiving care year round.
2. Adding Aeration (fountain or aerator) if your pond does not currently have a functioning aeration system.
3. Adding Annual Aeration (fountain or aerator) maintenance. Even if these items are under warranty, maintenance is still needed. (Think of the care you give your car motor.)
4. Funds to enhance your maintenance program with fish stocking, mosquito control, holiday lighting, or other services as desired.
5. A bathymetric and sedimentation study of the pond. We recommend that this is performed at least every five (5) years in conjunction with your Reserve Study to reveal changes in the pond.
6. An appropriate contribution to your Reserve Account for the eventual replacement of the pond’s aeration (fountain or aerator) system.
7. An appropriate contribution to your Reserve Account for the eventual need to dredge your pond.

In the maps above, the HOA needed the depths of the cove to be a minimum of 4 foot for boat access. Mapping Network located the areas where the current depth was less than four feet, which was the dredging zone. The Mapping Network calculated the dredging area and volume. The current lake bathymetry (left) and the post-dredge contours (middle)are shown in blue shading. A cut-fill model (right) shows areas of cut needed to reach the goal.

Your Knowledge May be Beneath the Surface

Dredging is one of the most costly projects that a community or pond owner will incur during the life of a pond. Proper planning for a dredging project could mean cost savings. SŌLitude Lake Management recommends that you have a bathymetric study and sedimentation study periodically to make certain that the shape of your pond isn’t changing more rapidly than you are anticipating. Having the study performed on a regular basis will help to establish patterns and will assist in determining the size, magnitude and timing of dredging projects.

It is important to keep as many records on your pond as possible. A history of services, plans, bathymetry and major weather events is a good tool. If you have the original “as built” plans, they can be used to help determine the rate at which the pond is “filling in”. However, a better way to determine this is a sediment survey which measures the build-up and thickness of the sediment in your pond. A sediment survey can point out patterns and masses of build-up that can allow for a more focused dredge rather than a full-scale project.

Contact us today regarding bathymetry and sediment mapping for your pond. Knowing what lies beneath the surface is important for planning the future!

The Mapping Network surveyed the bottom of the lake including the sediment depths. This map shows the lake water depth as blue contours lines as well as a color shaded sediment thickness. This specialized technology allows the POA to easily locate problem areas.

The Mapping Network is an industry leader in Hydrographic Surveys, Bathymetry, Geographic Information Systems Consulting, Data Conversion, and GPS Data Collection.  We specialize in terrain and sub-surface (bathymetry) GPS mapping.   If you are serious about maintaining  a high-quality golf course, lake or pond, be sure you have the ability to make the best decisions,  get your resource mapped by the professionals at The Mapping Network.   Give us a call or send an e-mail to find out more details.

phone:  (402) 241-8177

e-mail: info@themappingnetwork.com

website: www.themappingnetwork.com

Check out The Mapping Network on Facebook for more examples and success stories!

The Mapping Network is proud to announce their firm has been chosen by Cabela’s, the World’s Foremost Outfitter, as a Landowner Services provider for Cabela’s Trophy Properties throughout the United States.  Visit us on the Cabela’s Trophy Properties website >> click here

The Mapping Network:  www.TheMappingNetwork.com

A Nationwide Network of GPS Mapping Professionals

Property Owner Association Uses Hydrographic & Sediment Surveys to Create Strategic Sediment Removal Plan – Resulting in Hundreds of Thousands in Savings

The Mapping Network Hydrographic Survey Team exceeds expectations for Property Owner Association.

Overview:  A lake property association (POA) has been dealing directly with the challenges associated with sedimentation in their lakes for over 20 years.  In 2002 The Board of Directors created a 30 year sediment removal and management plan (2002-2031).  They looked at 3 different options: A) hiring a dredging professional, B) leasing dredging equipment and use current POA staff to operate, or C) purchasing a new dredge and using POA staff to operate.  They contacted two environmental consultants for cost estimates over the 30 year process.  The estimates ranged from $1,000,000 to $5,000,000 which left the POA in a difficult position of trying to make a long term management decision based on wide ranging potential costs.  In the end the POA decided to purchase their own dredging equipment an utilize existing staff and volunteers to operated the equipment.

In House Accountability Challenges:  After nearly a decade of in house dredging the POA Board of Directors was unable to quantify and verify results.  When reviewing the budget requests from the lakes and dam committee, they realized they were spending a lot of resources without having clear information on how successful the sediment removal process had been over the years.

New Vision:  The POA decided they needed to quantify the sediment problem to create a sustainable sediment management plan.  The president of the board spearheaded an effort to get a hydrographic and sediment survey completed.  The president contacted several hydrographic survey companies and chose The Mapping Network to provide this service based on experience in the industry and listening to the needs of the POA.

Lake Survey Purpose:  The primary objective of the hydrographic and sediment survey was to better understand the condition of the lake by charting the existing lake contours along with mapping the sediment thickness throughout the lake.  Once the mapping process was completed the POA was able to identify areas that needed dredging and how much material was there.  This allows for much better budgeting and accountability.

Results: The POA was excited to have information based on real numbers (lake and sediment survey).  The hydrographic survey results are an essential part of the decision making process with regards to the sediment removal planning.  After 20 years of dredging and several studies performed by consultants they felt for the first time they finally understood the problem and how to manage it.  Now they have real information, which gives them a clear picture of what to do in the future.

Future: Members of the POA say they will completely change course by finishing up the current in house dredging work and then sell all dredging equipment.  They will then work with a  professional dredging contractor to clean out specified problem areas identified during the hydrographic survey process.  Understanding the true extent of the lake sediment distribution in the lake will save the POA an estimated $200,000 to $300,000 in costs by selling unnecessary equipment and strategic dredging planning.  The POA will be using the hydrographic survey information as a baseline for all future work and will adjust the map as dredging continues.

Conclusion:  In the end the primary problem facing the POA was not the sediment in the lake but rather not knowing the facts about the lake to make the best decisions.  The POA now has the facts needed to create a comprehensive plan that will accurately represent the work being completed.  Plus members have a wonderful contour map to assist with fishing!

The Mapping Network surveyed the bottom of the lake including the sediment depths. This map shows the lake water depth as blue contours lines as well as a color shaded sediment thickness. This specialized technology allows the POA to easily locate problem areas.

The Mapping Network is an industry leader in Hydrographic Surveys, Bathymetry, Geographic Information Systems Consulting, Data Conversion, and GPS Data Collection.  We specialize in terrain and sub-surface (bathymetry) GPS mapping.   If you are serious about maintaining  a high-quality golf course, lake or pond, be sure you have the ability to make the best decisions,  get your resource mapped by the professionals at The Mapping Network.   Give us a call or send an e-mail to find out more details.

phone:  (402) 241-8177

e-mail: info@themappingnetwork.com

website: www.themappingnetwork.com

Check out The Mapping Network on Facebook for more examples and success stories!

The Mapping Network is proud to announce their firm has been chosen by Cabela’s, the World’s Foremost Outfitter, as a Landowner Services provider for Cabela’s Trophy Properties throughout the United States.  Visit us on the Cabela’s Trophy Properties website >> click here

The Mapping Network:  www.TheMappingNetwork.com

A Nationwide Network of GPS Mapping Professionals

Lake Mapping Virtual Fly-Over and Swim-Through

The Mapping Network, LLC is a business organized to perform Hydrographic and Sub-bottom profile surveys on lake and river systems for a wide range of clients throughout the United States. We operate from our office in Omaha, Nebraska along with fifteen highly trained Lake Management companies located around the country. We provide this service for a variety of client needs including generating bathymetry, sediment, and water volume information.

The Mapping Network works directly with government organizations, lake associations, engineers, developers and dredging companies. Our company and personnel have been leaders in the development of tools and technology for hydrographic survey systems for over a decade.

See virtual fly-over and swim-through of a recent project below.

Contact The Mapping Network for more information:

phone:  (402) 241-8177

e-mail: info@themappingnetwork.com

website: www.themappingnetwork.com

Check out The Mapping Network on Facebook for more examples and success stories!

The Mapping Network is an industry leader in Hydrographic Surveys, Bathymetry, Geographic Information Systems Consulting, Data Conversion, and GPS Data Collection.  We specialize in terrain and sub-surface (bathymetry) GPS mapping.   If you are serious about maintaining  a high-quality golf course, lake or pond, be sure you have the ability to make the best decisions,  get your resource mapped by the professionals at The Mapping Network.   Give us a call or send an e-mail to find out more details.

The Mapping Network is proud to announce their firm has been chosen by Cabela’s, the World’s Foremost Outfitter, as a Landowner Services provider for Cabela’s Trophy Properties throughout the United States.  Visit us on the Cabela’s Trophy Properties website >> click here

The Mapping Network:  www.TheMappingNetwork.com

A Nationwide Network of GPS Mapping Professionals

Property Owner Association Uses Hydrographic & Sediment Surveys to Create Strategic Sediment Removal Plan – Resulting in Hundreds of Thousands in Savings

The Mapping Network Hydrographic Survey Team exceeds expectations for Property Owner Association.

Overview:  A lake property association (POA) has been dealing directly with the challenges associated with sedimentation in their lakes for over 20 years.  In 2002 The Board of Directors created a 30 year sediment removal and management plan (2002-2031).  They looked at 3 different options: A) hiring a dredging professional, B) leasing dredging equipment and use current POA staff to operate, or C) purchasing a new dredge and using POA staff to operate.  They contacted two environmental consultants for cost estimates over the 30 year process.  The estimates ranged from $1,000,000 to $5,000,000 which left the POA in a difficult position of trying to make a long term management decision based on wide ranging potential costs.  In the end the POA decided to purchase their own dredging equipment an utilize existing staff and volunteers to operated the equipment.

In House Accountability Challenges:  After nearly a decade of in house dredging the POA Board of Directors was unable to quantify and verify results.  When reviewing the budget requests from the lakes and dam committee, they realized they were spending a lot of resources without having clear information on how successful the sediment removal process had been over the years.

New Vision:  The POA decided they needed to quantify the sediment problem to create a sustainable sediment management plan.  The president of the board spearheaded an effort to get a hydrographic and sediment survey completed.  The president contacted several hydrographic survey companies and chose The Mapping Network to provide this service based on experience in the industry and listening to the needs of the POA.

Lake Survey Purpose:  The primary objective of the hydrographic and sediment survey was to better understand the condition of the lake by charting the existing lake contours along with mapping the sediment thickness throughout the lake.  Once the mapping process was completed the POA was able to identify areas that needed dredging and how much material was there.  This allows for much better budgeting and accountability.

Results: The POA was excited to have information based on real numbers (lake and sediment survey).  The hydrographic survey results are an essential part of the decision making process with regards to the sediment removal planning.  After 20 years of dredging and several studies performed by consultants they felt for the first time they finally understood the problem and how to manage it.  Now they have real information, which gives them a clear picture of what to do in the future.

Future: Members of the POA say they will completely change course by finishing up the current in house dredging work and then sell all dredging equipment.  They will then work with a  professional dredging contractor to clean out specified problem areas identified during the hydrographic survey process.  Understanding the true extent of the lake sediment distribution in the lake will save the POA an estimated $200,000 to $300,000 in costs over the next 20 years by selling unnecessary equipment and strategic dredging planning.  The POA will be using the hydrographic survey information as a baseline for all future work and will adjust the map as dredging continues.

In the end the primary problem facing the POA was not the sediment in the lake but rather not knowing the facts about the lake to make the best decisions.  The POA now has the facts needed to create a comprehensive plan that will accurately represent the work being completed.  Plus members have a wonderful contour map to assist with fishing!

The Mapping Network surveyed the bottom of the lake including the sediment depths. This map shows the lake water depth as blue contours lines as well as a color shaded sediment thickness. This specialized technology allows the POA to easily locate problem areas.

The Mapping Network is an industry leader in Hydrographic Surveys, Bathymetry, Geographic Information Systems Consulting, Data Conversion, and GPS Data Collection.  We specialize in terrain and sub-surface (bathymetry) GPS mapping.   If you are serious about maintaining  a high-quality golf course, lake or pond, be sure you have the ability to make the best decisions,  get your resource mapped by the professionals at The Mapping Network.   Give us a call or send an e-mail to find out more details.

phone:  (402) 241-8177

e-mail: info@themappingnetwork.com

website: www.themappingnetwork.com

Check out The Mapping Network on Facebook for more examples and success stories!

The Mapping Network is proud to announce their firm has been chosen by Cabela’s, the World’s Foremost Outfitter, as a Landowner Services provider for Cabela’s Trophy Properties throughout the United States.  Visit us on the Cabela’s Trophy Properties website >> click here

The Mapping Network:  www.TheMappingNetwork.com

A Nationwide Network of GPS Mapping Professionals

Budget Time for Hydrographic and Sediment Surveys

It’s Budget Season!  

Don’t Forget About the Pond!

By SOLitude Lake Management  www.solitudelakemanagement.com

*Do you know if dredging is in your future?

*Do you know how much time you have before your dredging project will begin?

*Do you have a plan in place to deal with the cost and  the logistics of such a large project?

Important Things to Remember When Preparing Your 2013 Budget

1. Annual Pond Maintenance to make certain that your pond is receiving care year round.
2. Adding Aeration (fountain or aerator) if your pond does not currently have a functioning aeration system.
3. Adding Annual Aeration (fountain or aerator) maintenance. Even if these items are under warranty, maintenance is still needed. (Think of the care you give your car motor.)
4. Funds to enhance your maintenance program with fish stocking, mosquito control, holiday lighting, or other services as desired.
5. A bathymetric and sedimentation study of the pond. We recommend that this is performed at least every five (5) years in conjunction with your Reserve Study to reveal changes in the pond.
6. An appropriate contribution to your Reserve Account for the eventual replacement of the pond’s aeration (fountain or aerator) system.
7. An appropriate contribution to your Reserve Account for the eventual need to dredge your pond.

In the maps above, the HOA needed the depths of the cove to be a minimum of 4 foot for boat access. Mapping Network located the areas where the current depth was less than four feet, which was the dredging zone. The Mapping Network calculated the dredging area and volume. The current lake bathymetry (left) and the post-dredge contours (middle)are shown in blue shading. A cut-fill model (right) shows areas of cut needed to reach the goal.

Your Knowledge May be Beneath the Surface

Dredging is one of the most costly projects that a community or pond owner will incur during the life of a pond. Proper planning for a dredging project could mean cost savings. SŌLitude Lake Management recommends that you have a bathymetric study and sedimentation study periodically to make certain that the shape of your pond isn’t changing more rapidly than you are anticipating. Having the study performed on a regular basis will help to establish patterns and will assist in determining the size, magnitude and timing of dredging projects.

It is important to keep as many records on your pond as possible. A history of services, plans, bathymetry and major weather events is a good tool. If you have the original “as built” plans, they can be used to help determine the rate at which the pond is “filling in”. However, a better way to determine this is a sediment survey which measures the build-up and thickness of the sediment in your pond. A sediment survey can point out patterns and masses of build-up that can allow for a more focused dredge rather than a full-scale project.

Contact us today regarding bathymetry and sediment mapping for your pond. Knowing what lies beneath the surface is important for planning the future!

The Mapping Network surveyed the bottom of the lake including the sediment depths. This map shows the lake water depth as blue contours lines as well as a color shaded sediment thickness. This specialized technology allows the POA to easily locate problem areas.

The Mapping Network is an industry leader in Hydrographic Surveys, Bathymetry, Geographic Information Systems Consulting, Data Conversion, and GPS Data Collection.  We specialize in terrain and sub-surface (bathymetry) GPS mapping.   If you are serious about maintaining  a high-quality golf course, lake or pond, be sure you have the ability to make the best decisions,  get your resource mapped by the professionals at The Mapping Network.   Give us a call or send an e-mail to find out more details.

phone:  (402) 241-8177

e-mail: info@themappingnetwork.com

website: www.themappingnetwork.com

Check out The Mapping Network on Facebook for more examples and success stories!

The Mapping Network is proud to announce their firm has been chosen by Cabela’s, the World’s Foremost Outfitter, as a Landowner Services provider for Cabela’s Trophy Properties throughout the United States.  Visit us on the Cabela’s Trophy Properties website >> click here

The Mapping Network:  www.TheMappingNetwork.com

A Nationwide Network of GPS Mapping Professionals