Sediment Quality Surveys
Dynamic Ocean Consulting provides professional sediment quality surveys to help understand what’s happening on the seafloor or beneath the riverbed.
By collecting and analyzing sediment samples, we can identify habitat conditions for fish and invertebrates, measure background and project-related contaminants, and support regulatory requirements for dredging and disposal-at-sea projects.
Our team combines field experience with scientific and regulatory knowledge to ensure every sample is collected, handled, and analyzed to the highest Canadian standards.
How We Collect Sediment Samples
Dynamic Ocean uses several proven methods to collect sediment samples depending on water depth, substrate type, and site conditions. Each tool is selected to provide a clean, representative sample with minimal disturbance to the environment.
Ponar® Grab Sampler
The Ponar Grab is a hinged, clamshell-style device that is lowered to the bottom using a winch or line.
When it reaches the seafloor, the jaws close and capture a small amount of sediment from the surface layer — similar to taking a “scoop” of the seabed.
This method works well for most conditions and provides a reliable snapshot of the top layer of sediment where most organisms live and contaminants are found.
VibeCore DD4 Vibracore
The VibeCore is used when we need to collect deeper or more compact sediments.
It works like a vertical coring drill — gently vibrating a long tube into the seabed to capture a continuous column of material.
This creates a “core” showing layers of sediment from the surface down several meters, helping us understand how conditions change with depth or over time.
This system is especially valuable in northern regions or coarse-grained environments where traditional samplers may not penetrate effectively.
Diver-Collected Samples
In shallow or complex nearshore areas, our SCUBA diving teams collect samples by hand using small push tubes or scoops.
This approach allows divers to visually confirm where samples are taken — ideal for sensitive habitats, eelgrass beds, or near infrastructure where precision is important.
Because samples are taken directly by trained divers, this method ensures minimal disturbance and very accurate location control.
From Collection to Results
After collection, samples are carefully sealed, labeled, and transported to certified Canadian laboratories.
They are tested for metals, hydrocarbons, nutrients, and other potential contaminants using modern analytical techniques.
Results are then compared to Canadian Sediment Quality Guidelines to determine whether sediment conditions are within acceptable ecological limits.
Our team interprets these results clearly and translates them into practical recommendations — whether for construction management, environmental monitoring, or dredging and disposal-at-sea planning.
Why Sediment Quality Matters
Sediment sampling helps answer important questions such as:
Are contaminant levels within safe limits for aquatic life?
Has project activity changed local sediment quality?
Is the habitat suitable for benthic organisms or fish spawning?
What is the best approach for dredging or disposal planning?
We work closely with Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), and accredited analytical laboratories to ensure results are accurate and defensible.
Safety and Compliance
Samples are collected using methods that meet ECCC and DFO protocols.
Equipment is cleaned and calibrated before each use to prevent cross-contamination.
Contact
Whether you need baseline sediment data, compliance monitoring, or site-specific assessments, Dynamic Ocean Consulting can design a survey tailored to your project.
Contact us to discuss your sediment quality needs and request a proposal.