GFA has become a leader in the field of vibracore sampling. Vibracore sampling is a method of retrieving undisturbed samples in marine environments to evaluate sub-bottom sediments. It is particularly useful to provide direct sample validation of sub-bottom and seismic profiling efforts in the field of sand resource evaluation related to beach restoration and beach renourishment projects.

The vibracore equipment consists of a vibrating motor which to which a hollow casing is attached that slides down a beam of a predetermined length. The apparatus is typically launched over the water surface by a crane mounted on a barge vessel and placed in a vertical position. The sampling is then conducted as the vibration begins. The vibration is of low applitude and high frequency that liquefies sediments that are then collected in the hollow casing’s liner. When complete, the sampling device is lifted back on the barge and the sample is extracted.

GFA’s most recent projects include the following:

• Holly Beach Sand Search, Holly Beach, Louisiana
• North Boca Raton Beach Sand Search, Boca Raton, Florida
• Siesta Key Sand Search, Siesta Key, Florida