Woods Hole Science Center
Buzzards Bay & Vineyard Sound | |||||||||||||
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The geologic framework of the Massachusetts inner continental shelf has been shaped by a complicated history of glaciation, deglaciation, and changes in relative sea level. New geophysical data (swath bathymetry, sidescan sonar and seismic-reflection profiling), sediment samples, and seafloor photography provide insight into the geomorphic and stratigraphic record generated by these processes. Approximately 825 km² (320 mi²) of shallow seafloor are the focus of mapping to be completed in Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound in water depths of up to 45 m (150 ft). The maps are being produced as part of a cooperative mapping program between the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM). Accurate depictions of seafloor geology are an important first step toward understanding the type, distribution, and quality of subtidal marine habitats in the Massachusetts coastal ocean. The main objective is to support marine resource managers charged with making decisions on the use and protection of ocean resources. A companion report (in preparation) will contain descriptions of the data collection, processing, and analysis procedures used to create the maps, and GIS databases with all the geophysical and ground-validation data collected as part of this study.
Project Status: Planned
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