Benthic Mapping Pilot Project: San Juan Island National Historical Park (SAJH)

Existing regional seafloor mapping data were compiled, multibeam echo sounder (MBES) data (collected by the Canadian Hydrographic Service) were interpreted, and benthic maps were constructed in and around the American and English Camp units of San Juan Island National Historical Park. The objectives of the project were to: 1) compile existing regional seafloor mapping data in and around the American and Engish Camp units of SAJH, 2) interpret MBES data collected by the Canadian Hydrographic Service, and 3) construct benthic habitat maps for SAJH. In the American Camp area, 28 potential habitat types were mapped in a total area of just over 12 km2 (4.6 mi2). The dominant habitat type (~72% of mapped area) was soft, unconsolidated sediment. In the English Camp area, 15 potential habitat types were mapped in a total area of almost 13 km2 (5.0 mi2). This area was also dominated by unconsolidated sediment (~99% of total mapped area), including three vegetation types (eelgrass [Z. marina], sea lettuce [Ulva lactuca], and sand with unknown vegetation) which covered ~3.7% of mapped area.

Benthic Mapping Pilot Project: San Juan Island National Historical Park (SAJH)

Program