The methods utilized in this study for sediment sampling are to grid the study reservoirs into a series of sampling lines. The Baylor Geophysics research boat and differential GPS is then used to locate the sampling lines in the reservoir and samples are taken using a mini-ponar sediment sampler to obtain only the uppermost 3-5 cm of sediment. Each sampling site also has a spud bar sample taken to determine to total sediment depth for each sampling site. Alternately, the sites have a core taken using a four foot long oceanographic core barrel and a spud bar will be used to determine the total depth of sediments at the location. The core is logged on-site to determine sediment characteristics based on standard core description techniques.

This information will be used in conjunction with the geophysical data to determine the distribution of sediment types, as well as mechanisms for sedimentation in the lakes.