Understanding sediment dynamics in the estuarine reach of the Ayeyarwady Delta

Abstract

The studies proposed here will evaluate hydrodynamics, sediment transport and sedimentation on the Ayeyarwady Delta (Myanmar) over a range of space and time scales. On the largest scale, three distributary channels will be contrasted in the western, central, and eastern regions of the Delta. Within each, the operation and migration of estuarine processes, development of a turbidity maximum, and resulting channel-bed morphology will be documented. On the smallest scale, sediment dynamics within tidal channels, intertidal flats, and mangrove shorelines seasonally subjected to marine waters will be explored. The dominant scales of temporal variability in delta systems relate to seasonal changes in the rivery hydrograph and tidal changes in water level and current velocity. These temporal scales will guide our sampling within the studies. Our observational investigation is also designed to provide ground truth for collaborative studies of remote sensing and to provide boundary conditions and validation for numerical modeling.

Document Details

Document Type
DoD Grant Award
Publication Date
May 05, 2017
Source ID
N000141712350

Entities

People

  • Charles A. Nittrouer

Organizations

  • Office of Naval Research
  • United States Navy
  • University of Washington

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Environmental science

Readers

  • Coastal Oceanography
  • Coastal and Marine Engineering/Sediment Transport/Hydraulic Engineering

Technology Areas

  • Space