This guide is intended to provide instructions for the selection of horizontal positioning equipment under a wide range of conditions encountered in measurement of water depth in surface water bodies. These conditions, that include physical conditions at the measuring site, the quality of data required, the availability of appropriate measuring equipment, and the distances over which the measurements are to be made (including cost considerations), that govern the selection process. A step-by-step procedure for obtaining horizontal position is not discussed. This guide is to be used in conjunction with standard guide on measurement of surface water depth (such as standard Practice D 5173.)

1.1 This guide covers the selection of procedures commonly used to establish a measurement of horizontal position during investigations of surface water bodies that are as follows:

1.1.1 The narrative specifies horizontal positioning terminology and describes manual, optical, and electronic measuring equipment and techniques.

1.2 The references cited contain information that may help in the design of a high quality measurement program.

1.3 The information provided on horizontal positioning is descriptive in nature and not intended to endorse any particular item of manufactured equipment or procedure.

1.4 This guide pertains to determining horizontal position of a depth measurement in quiescent or low velocity flow.

1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The SI units in parentheses are for information only.

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.