The lake created for the Lake Forest subdivision is completely surrounded by private property, making access difficult for surveyors. Photo: Dr. Bret Webb MISSION: WATER 8 HEADLINE SURFACE WATER It was a small lake, but a big challenge. Covering about 43 acres (17 ha), the lake is at the center of the Lake Forest subdivision in Daphne, Alabama and is completely surrounded by private property. Bret Webb, associate professor of Civil, Coastal and Environmental Engineering at the University of South Alabama, was starting a month-long study of sedimentation in the lake to help authorities evaluate flood storage capacity and potential restoration activities, but he was having trouble reaching the water. There was no public boat access, and thick vegetation prevented surveying elevations above the water level. CLEVER KAYAK RIG NAVIGATES TRICKY BATHYMETRY CHALLENGE STEVE WERBLOW