Our most major project within the Sustainable Alderney initiative is the ASVS, which involves monitoring the studying the seabed around Alderney and the other Channel Islands ahead of the forthcoming tidal power developments.

We conduct surveys using underwater video equipment, at depths of up to 50 meters in waters that are notorious for being fast flowing and with many semi-submerged rocks.

The project started in November 2008 and throughout 2009 we gained a unique insight into the marine habitat and environment. There have been one or two surprises including an uncharted wreck.

The equipment we use is almost entirely of our own design, as we quickly found that traditional techniques do not work with such vast tides; the very reason why tidal turbines will soon be deployed here.

With a solid baseline of data our work will give a reference point for many studies to come, broadening the knowledge and science behind what we all hope is going to be a major source of clean energy.

Gallery. Click on the image for a full size version
	Another great image captured on the first of our winter surveys.
	An excellent image taken at 46m.
	An image from the same location as above, showing sea urchins in adition to the sponges.
	An image from an uncharted wreck that we have reported.
	Melanie Broadhurst - slightly wind and spray swept while returning from deploying some test equipment.
	Melanie Roots and Dave, the skipper of Voyager, monitoring the depth. Mel has a natural talent for sonar and is able to describe not only the depth but the type and texture of the seabed - something you would only know if you have video footage to confirm!
	An underwater image of one of Open Hydro's turbines, for more images visit their web site.