Estuarine Adjustment and Sensitivity

University Of Washington, Seattle WA

Investigators

Abstract

MacCready 0136760 Funds are provided for the development of two simplified models to be used in an investigation of the adjustment of an estuary to changes in river flow, wind forcing, and tidal forcing. The simplest model depends on two bulk parameters representing vertical and longitudinal stratification while the other is laterally and layer averaged. Further three-dimensional modeling will be performed with ECOM-si, a modified version of the Princeton Ocean Model, in simple topographic scenarios. The three-dimensional model will be verified using data from Willipa Bay and Budd Inlet. The output from the three-dimensional model will be compared to solutions from the more simplified models and used to verify the latter. Laboratory modeling will also be undertaken. The results of this research will be quickly transferred to students in the PI's courses. The PI has close collaborations with state environmental managers intends rapid technology transfer to practical applications, as well.