The Florida Department of Environmental Protection announced on Mar. 25 that it has completed all airborne LiDAR data collection and received most vessel-based sonar data for its Florida Seafloor Mapping Initiative, a large-scale effort to map the state’s coastal waters.
This milestone is significant because it provides new information about underwater habitats and supports planning for reef protection, beach nourishment, flood modeling, and other coastal management needs. According to the official website, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection supported efforts to build resilient coasts and communities through restoration and planning initiatives.
The initiative uses advanced technologies such as airborne LiDAR systems to measure water depths with laser pulses and vessel-based multibeam sonar for high-resolution mapping in deeper waters. Secretary Alexis A. Lambert said, “Florida’s coastline is one of our state’s greatest natural and economic assets, supporting millions of residents, tourism, commercial fisheries and critical infrastructure. Understanding the seafloor and the features that shape our coast helps us make smart decisions about protecting communities, strengthening resilience and investing taxpayer dollars where they will have the greatest impact.”
Kimberly Jackson, Florida Geographic Information Officer, said that more than 75,500 square kilometers have been mapped using LiDAR technology while over 64,000 square kilometers were mapped with sonar: “Before this initiative began, only about 25,600 square kilometers of Florida’s seafloor had been mapped. Today we have mapped more than 14 times that amount giving Florida an unprecedented understanding of its underwater landscape.” Early analysis has revealed ancient shorelines near Miami as well as previously unknown mesophotic coral reefs offshore from Pensacola.
These findings are already being used by scientists working with federal agencies like NOAA to study deepwater coral ecosystems using remotely operated vehicles. The data is also being integrated into a seamless statewide digital elevation model through collaboration with the U.S. Geological Survey’s Coastal National Elevation Database Applications Project.
According to the official website, the department also maintains state parks across Florida providing recreational opportunities; oversees more than 175 state parks trails and historic sites; aims to safeguard air water land resources; serves all regions with environmental protection programs; offers services including environmental project permitting waste management regulation.
The department expects FSMI data will be made publicly available in fall 2026 at which point planners scientists policymakers can use these comprehensive maps for future beach restoration habitat protection resilient infrastructure projects.
