Topobathymetric LiDAR Enhanced by Sonar Support for Deep-Channel Mapping in River Restoration
Wyatt Lee
WhiteOut Solutions
St Johnsbury, VT
Accurate representation of river bathymetry is fundamental to effective stream and river restoration design, particularly in dynamic systems where channel morphology drives habitat complexity, sediment transport, and hydraulic connectivity. While topobathymetric LiDAR has emerged as a powerful tool for mapping shallow-water environments, its performance can be limited in deeper or highly turbid channels. Conversely, sonar-based hydrographic methods provide reliable depth measurements in deep-water zones but often lack seamless integration with surrounding floodplain and nearshore topography.
This presentation presents a sensor fusion approach combining airborne topobathymetric LiDAR with sonar-derived bathymetry to generate continuous, high-resolution digital elevation models (DEMs) across both shallow and deep channel environments. By integrating complementary datasets, the proposed workflow improves coverage in complex river corridors, resolves deep pools and thalweg features, and reduces uncertainty at the land–water interface.
The presentation will look at workflows automation for: water surface normalization, handling turbidity, refraction correction and methods for gap-filling and smoothing at sensor overlap zones. Showing the reproducibility of these methods.
The presentation will include a case study on the San Joaquin River in Stockton, California, demonstrating how LiDAR–sonar fusion provides a more complete representation of channel form than either sensor alone. The fused surface supports restoration practitioners by enabling more accurate hydraulic modeling, geomorphic assessment, and habitat mapping. Applications include designing grade control structures, evaluating channel migration potential, quantifying sediment volumes, and improving baseline conditions for monitoring restoration outcomes.
This work highlights the growing role of multi-sensor hydrospatial mapping in stream restoration and offers a scalable methodology for improving bathymetric data quality in support of resilient river systems.
About Waytt Lee
Wyatt has 5 years of experience in providing Geospatial Technology and Solutions to a variety of Market Segments. He currently is a Senior Sales Executive at Whiteout Solutions, based in Derby, Vermont.
Throughout his career, Wyatt has been driven by his commitment to a Customer-Centric approach by building lasting relationships which foster a Partnership that focuses on solving Complex Business Challenges with tailored Geospatial Solutions.
At Whiteout Solutions, a leader in advanced High Resolution Topo Bathymetric data acquisitions using Helicopter based platforms, Wyatt leverages his experience in helping Customers see beyond the status quo and educates them on new ways to unlock the value of High-Resolution Geospatial data. His work reflects a dedication to helping find innovative, data driven solutions to incredibly challenging real-world problems. Always with an eye towards building strong lasting partnership style relationships.