DMS: Diagnostic Modeling System - Report 1, Reduction of Sediment Shoaling by Relocation of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, Matagorda Bay, Texas
Abstract
The Diagnostic Modeling System (DMS) is intended to provide a rapid, yet reliable capability for identifying and evaluating navigation channel operations and maintenance (O&M) alternatives based on limited information about the hydrodynamic and sediment- transport conditions at a site. The DMS gives a diagnosis of a problem shoaling area (in contrast to conducting expensive and time-consuming studies), together with guidance for determining possible solutions. The DMS also contains dredging and associated records to document shoaling patterns and measures taken. As a first proof of concept, the methodology of the DMS was applied to investigate a region of increasing sediment shoaling along the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW), Matagorda Bay, Texas. Morphological, engineering, and numerical modeling approaches were taken in three parallel paths. The three study methods found that a bird island located near the intersection of the GIWW and Matagorda Ship Channel (MSC) was experiencing significant erosion because of its close proximity to the MSC entrance and strong flood currents. The DMS methodology led to the conclusion that the GIWW should be located several kilometers north of its present location, which would also improve navigation efficiency at the MSC and GIWW intersection.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA383233
Entities
People
- David J. Mark
- Nicholas C. Kraus
- Soraya Sarruff
Organizations
- Engineer Research and Development Center