Integrating Geolocational Features with ZY-1E Satellite and Multibeam Data Using Random Forest Algorithm for Bathymetry Inversion in the Yangtze River Nantong Channel

Accurate bathymetry information is crucial for safe navigation and efficient management of the Yangtze River Channel, a vital shipping corridor in China. Traditional bathymetric surveying methods are time-consuming and labor-intensive, limiting their application in large-scale and real-time monitoring. This study proposes a novel approach for bathymetry inversion in the Yangtze River Nantong Channel by integrating geolocational features from the ZY-1E satellite with high-resolution multibeam data using a random forest algorithm. The Random Forest with Longitude/Latitude (RF-Lon./Lat.) model, which incorporates geographical information, outperformed conventional methods, achieving an R² of 0.57, MAE of 1.99m, and RMSE of 2.96m. The successful application of the RF-Lon./Lat. model highlights the effectiveness of integrating geolocational features with machine learning algorithms for accurate bathymetry inversion in the complex and turbid waters of the Yangtze River Channel. This innovative approach offers a promising solution for precise and efficient water depth estimation, which is essential for various applications in the Yangtze River Basin, including channel management, waterway maintenance, and hydrological studies. The insights gained from this study contribute to the growing body of knowledge on the application of machine learning and remote sensing techniques for bathymetric mapping in complex river environments, particularly in the context of the Yangtze River Channel.