This study used an unmanned surface vehicle (USV) equipped with a multibeam echosounder that was integrated with a global navigation satellite system and an inertial measurement unit to conduct bathymetric surveys in
agricultural ponds. Point cloud data were collected to perform a quality assessment, including cross-check verification and analysis of total propagation uncertainty. The results complied with the requirements of the International Hydrographic Organization S-44 special-order standard. These results were independently verified against the as-built drawings to confirm reliability, ensuring that the USV could accurately perform measurements up to approximately 10 cm at the deepest points of ponds A and B. Finally, the point cloud data were used to generate underwater digital elevation models. The results are presented in a comprehensive table detailing the water storage capacity, water levels, and corresponding
storage area and volume curves for the two agricultural ponds. When the water levels in ponds A and B were 2.1 and 2.4 m, respectively (with the pond bottom at 0 m), the water storage volumes reached approximately 4500 and 2700 m³, respectively. These findings can provide crucial data for effective pond management and water resource policy development.
Key Words: USV, MBES, agricultural ponds, bathymetric survey, DEM