Knowing the bottom type of your site is critical for designing the appropriate anchoring system. We’ll discuss anchoring systems and the relevant bottom type in detail in the course on farm design, but in general, a gravel, sandy, or muddy bottom is suitable for most anchor types, whereas a rocky bottom may require a more complex anchoring system. Anchors can be some of your costliest startup expenses, so having clarity on your bottom type can help you make decisions around this early capital investment. 

Get to know your bottom type by observing the shoreline near your site; drop an anchor from your boat and see if it comes up covered in mud, or snorkel or dive your site.