Ken’s Barge
A 3D model of the remains of a railway barge in Slocan Lake, BC, Canada.
This 3D model was created during an exploration and documentation trip with the Underwater Archaeological Society of British Columbia. Local historians had identified the presence of a submerged barge at the site, likely dating to the late 19th century, and I was invited along to photograph the remains and produce a photogrammetric model.
The visit was part of a broader effort to take inventory of multiple underwater sites, assess their condition, and check on existing infrastructure such as a previously installed mooring buoy. The barge itself varies significantly in condition: the deeper portion remains largely intact, while sections closer to shore are heavily broken up and difficult to interpret in isolation. Minimal sediment cover and good visibility made the site well suited to photogrammetry.
This was the shallowest site I have scanned to date, and it reinforced how dramatically lighting and depth affect photogrammetric results. The resulting model required relatively little cleanup and preserves structural detail that can be difficult to capture through traditional underwater documentation alone.
Models like this are valuable to underwater archaeologists because they allow detailed inspection and measurement of a site without repeated, time-consuming dives. They also support public engagement by making submerged cultural heritage accessible to people who may never enter the water, offering a far more immersive experience than still imagery.
2025-04-11