Geomorphologic Modeling of a Macro-tidal Embayment with Extensive Tidal Flats: Skagit Bay, WA
Abstract
Understand morphology changes of mud tidal flats and provide quantification of the sensitivity of these changes to tidal action, river discharge and shoreline development. Demonstrate the use of a community numerical model for estimating the tidal flat morphology. The ONR/Delft Community model is being evaluated as a physically-based numerical simulation tool for several kinds of investigations. The objective of the project is to further demonstrate it use for tidal flat/channel systems. Investigate the relative roles of tidal action, river discharge and shoreline development on morphology. From a model tuning perspective, this objective includes advancing the understanding of the sensitivity of the model to parameter value adjustments and inclusion or exclusion of specific sediment transport processes and characterization in tidal flat and channel systems. Integrate model analyses with observations and field planning efforts. The model fidelity will be improved by incorporation of observational data in terms of model configuration, the assignment of boundary and initial conditions and for calibration and validation efforts. There is also a benefit to using the model to help with the design of the field programs and the interpretation of observational datasets. This has been demonstrated in other studies (e.g. Hibler, et al, 2008). A three-phase approach will be used. All phases are model configuration and evaluation intensive.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA515090
Entities
People
- Adam Maxwell
- Lyle Hibler
Organizations
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory