Modeling Water Quality of Reservoir Tailwaters
Abstract
Results from field studies of water quality downstream of reservoirs are analyzed to obtain an improved understanding of the mechanisms and chemical transformations occurring in reservoir tailwaters. The research focuses on the poor water quality (e.g., low dissolved oxygen and increased concentrations of reduced substances, such as iron, manganese, and sulfide) associated with deep, anoxic releases from hydropower and nonhydropower dams. In some cases, the analyses confirmed kinetic models that describe the change in constituent concentration with time and resulted in relationships to estimate kinetic rate coefficients. Results were used to develop a model of tailwater quality, and the model was validated with data from the field studies. A description of the model and a model user guide are also included.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA252061
Entities
People
- Barry W. Bunch
- Dorothy H. Tillman
- Mark S. Dortch