The Tombolo Mapping Lab specializes in the development of interpretive seafloor maps to further our knowledge of the sea around us
The image above shows the seafloor images of the San Juan Archipelago in the central Salish Sea, created primarily from multibeam echosounder bathymetric (MBES) surveys conducted by the Tombolo Mapping Lab. Terrestrial areas have been derived primarily from available light detection and ranging (LiDAR) surveys.
Recent Projects
Oil Spills and Benthic Habitats in the Central Salish Sea
The Salish Sea, a cherished and biodiverse marine environment, is at risk for a major oil spill. Commercial marine traffic has been increasing, expanding the risk of a major oil spill from oil transport, as well as from bunker fuels from other vessels. Transport of diluted bitumen (dilbit), a type of heavy oil that can sink to the seafloor, presents unique challenges for protection of benthic habitats, those habitats that are restricted to the seafloor.
A research report and maps published in the journal Continental Shelf Research and StoryMap describe this effort at identifying and mapping potential impacts of spilled dilbit in the central Salish Sea. Based on analysis of the geomorphology, sediment transport and deposition, and tidal influences, the work suggests how the sunken oil might behave in various locations — such as where the oil might become embedded into rocky crevasses, or be dispersed by strong currents, or accumulate and settle into sediments, or be trapped in bays. The maps also identify important benthic habitats that might lie in the path of spilled and sunken oil.
Exploring Pacific Sand Lance Subtidal Habitats
Pacific sand lance (PSL) is a critical forage fish in the Salish Sea and is preyed upon by salmon and other marine fishes, mammals, and birds. We often think of PSL habitat in terms of their use of spawning beaches. However, there is also significant subtidal PSL habitat in this region, where PSL seek refuge and spend the winter. A number of research projects have explored this subtidal habitat in the central Salish Sea.
Photo courtesy of Matt Baker
The StoryMap Collection
The above topics and more are covered in our StoryMap Collection including a brief introduction to the Salish Sea, seafloor and benthic habitat mapping, and geology in the central Salish Sea.