Scientists to use lasers, planes, software to assemble detailed map of California coastline

Scientists to make detailed map of Calif. coast

SAN JOSE, Calif. — Scientists will be using laser beams, computer software and airplanes to piece together what they say will be the most detailed map ever assembled of the California coastline.

State and federal scientists are set to begin work next month on a map of the state’s 1,200-mile coastline.

Doug George, a project manager with the state’s Ocean Protection Council, says the images will be so detailed that the new map will identify boulders and telephone poles. The data gathered will be used to track ocean levels, beach erosion and flooding risks.

The $3.3 million project will be supervised by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The work is expected to be finished in December, with the images posted to the Internet by next summer.

Information from: San Jose Mercury News, www.sjmercury.com