Main Physical Processes Affecting the Residence Times of a Micro-Tidal Estuary
Abstract
Residence time is an important parameter linked to the water quality in an estuary. In this paper, we identify and analyze the main processes that affect the residence time of the Caloosahatchee River Estuary, a micro-tidal and mixed diurnal-semidiurnal estuary located in western Florida. Multiyear validated hydrodynamic hindcast results were coupled with an offline particle tracking model to compute the residence time of the estuary, which showed a strong seasonality driven by the river discharge. The residence time reduced with increasing river flow. The wind velocity and direction also affected the residence time. The influence of the wind was dependent on the magnitude of the river discharge. In general, upstream-directed wind increased residence time, while downstream-directed wind decreased residence time. Downstream wind during the dry period reduced residence time on average by a week. Processes such as water density gradient-induced circulation and particle buoyancy also influenced the residence time of the estuary. The outcomes of this study can be used to better understand the influence of the main physical processes affecting the residence time at other similar estuaries and to help in the management of the estuaries to improve their water quality.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Jun 30, 2023
- Source ID
- 10.3390/jmse11071333
Entities
People
- Jose M. Gonzalez-ondina
- Maitane Olabarrieta
- Viyaktha Hithaishi Hewageegana
Organizations
- United States Army Corps of Engineers
- University of Florida