How to Calculate the Depth of a Lake

You can determine lake depth by the use of a sonar.
••• Buena Vista Images/Photodisc/Getty Images

The method for determining the depth of a lake depends on the resources available to the person making the calculation. Furthermore, there are multiple types of depth measurements. The mean depth of the lake is the volume divided by the surface area. You can use a fish finder or a rope with a weight to determine the depth of a lake. However, these technologies are only valuable for finding the depth at a specific place. To find the deepest point, you must take the measurements in several locations.

Determine Lake Depth with a Sonar

    Mount a fish finder sonar on a boat.

    Launch the boat.

    Turn on the sonar.

    Move the boat across the lake while watching the depth number. Note where the deepest points are along the way.

    Spiral in around the deepest points to find which is the deepest.

Determine Lake Depth with a Rope and Weight

    Tie the rope to the weight.

    Bring the boat to the middle of the lake.

    Lower the weight into the water slowly. When it touches the bottom, mark the rope and pull the weight back.

    Lower the weight in several nearby locations. If the deepest mark is under water, mark the new deepest point. Continue until satisfied with the accuracy of the depth point.

    Move to land and measure the rope with a tape measure.

Find Lake Depth Information on the World Lake Database

    Launch a web browser.

    Search the World Lake Database for the lake whose depth you are measuring.

    Write down the deepest point and the mean lake depth.

    Things You'll Need

    • Boat
    • Sonar
    • Rope
    • Weight

Related Articles

How to Calculate The Underwater Volume
The Average Length of Mahi Mahi
How to Calculate Water Depth
How to Find Mass in Weight
The Ecosystem of a Freshwater Pond
How to Make a Simple Theodolite
Plants & Animals That Live in Rivers & Streams
How to Calculate Static Head
How to Calculate Tree Basal Area
Definition of an Aquatic Ecosystem
How to Measure the Velocity of a River Using a Flow...
How to Build a Dam Craft With Popsicle Sticks
How to Calculate the Volume of a Person
Science Project: Why Salt Makes Things Float
The Effect of PH in River Water
How to Calculate Channel Slope
How to Calculate Overturning Moment
What Tools Are Used in Geography?
How to Calculate the Force of Moving Water
How to Calculate the Rate of Sea Floor Spreading

Dont Go!

We Have More Great Sciencing Articles!