Lake Mapping 101: Bathymetry, Vegetation, and Habitat Surveys

Discover how lake mapping tools like bathymetric surveys, vegetation analysis, and habitat assessments help Jones Lake Management deliver smarter, more targeted pond and lake care.

Lake mapping is one of the most powerful tools available for understanding and managing aquatic ecosystems. At Jones Lake Management, we use advanced technology—including BioBase mapping software—to collect detailed data on water depth, aquatic vegetation, and underwater habitat. These insights help us make smarter, more targeted management decisions for the ponds and lakes we care for. Whether you’re dealing with invasive weeds, poor fish growth, or murky water, mapping gives us a clearer picture of what’s really going on—and how to fix it.

What Is Lake Mapping?

Lake mapping refers to the process of collecting spatial data about underwater features. This includes:

• Bathymetric Surveys – Measuring depth and bottom contours

• Aquatic Vegetation Mapping – Identifying plant species, density, and distribution

• Habitat Assessments – Locating fish habitat, structure, and areas of concern

These surveys create a visual representation of what’s happening beneath the surface, giving us—and our clients—clarity and confidence.

How We Use Mapping in Our Lake Management Programs

1. Aquatic Vegetation Management

One of the most common reasons our clients contact us is for aquatic weed control. Using vegetation mapping, we can:

• Pinpoint areas with dense or invasive plant growth

• Calculate the percentage of surface and sub-surface plant coverage

• Target herbicide or mechanical treatments more precisely

• Track progress over time with follow-up mapping surveys

This reduces unnecessary chemical use and ensures treatments are focused exactly where they’re needed.

2. Fish Habitat and Stocking Plans

When designing a fish stocking plan or installing fish habitat, we rely on detailed maps to:

• Identify ideal locations based on water depth and structure

• Avoid areas prone to shallow water or low oxygen

• Monitor how habitat changes seasonally or after management

Mapping also helps us support sportfish populations by locating areas for forage fish enhancement and predator-prey balance.

3. Bathymetric Surveys and Sediment Monitoring

Sedimentation is a slow but serious issue in many ponds. Our bathymetric surveys help:

• Measure depth loss over time

• Identify shallow zones that may impact water quality

• Plan for hydraulic dredging when needed

• Estimate water volume for chemical dosing or aeration sizing

By comparing baseline maps over the years, we can help HOAs and private landowners plan ahead for capital improvements.

4. Clear Communication with HOAs and Stakeholders

One of the biggest benefits of lake mapping? Visualization. Our clients—from property managers to board members—appreciate seeing clear, color-coded maps that show:

• Before and after treatment conditions

• Zones with heavy weed growth

• Areas of concern, like sediment buildup or erosion

These visuals make it easier to communicate the “why” behind our recommendations and justify long-term budget planning.

Why Mapping Matters for Long-Term Lake Health

At Jones Lake Management, we believe mapping is managing. Data-driven insights allow us to:

• Detect issues earlier

• Manage resources more efficiently

• Improve transparency with stakeholders

• Track outcomes over time

Whether you’re maintaining a private pond, golf course water feature, or multi-acre HOA lake, incorporating mapping into your lake management strategy is a smart, future-focused investment. Want to learn more about how lake mapping can benefit your waterbody? Contact our team to schedule a vegetation survey, bathymetric analysis, or full ecosystem assessment.

About Jones Lake Management
Since 1949, Jones Lake Management has been a trusted leader in lake and pond management, delivering scientifically backed solutions to create and maintain healthy, balanced, and beautiful waterbodies. Our expert team offers a full range of services, including fish stocking, fisheries management, water quality monitoring, algae and aquatic weed control, aeration solutions, erosion control, invasive species management, hydraulic dredging, and more. Whether you manage a private lake, an HOA stormwater pond, a golf course water feature, or a municipal waterway, we provide customized solutions to ensure your waterbody remains healthy, functional, and thriving.