Support to Attend the Surface Erosion and Breach Workshop at the Hydraulic engineering
Abstract
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) uses several models for evaluating surface erosion in both earthen embankments and spillways. These models are classified as parametric, simplified, or detailed multidimensional physically-based models. However, there are concerns within USACE related to the uncertainty of the input parameters, appropriate use of different models, and sensitivity of the resulting consequences. Most of the models lack reliable, publicized field and/or laboratory tests to understand the process and support the model validity. Another concern is also the assumptions inherent in each of the models. A workshop was held on 30 June / 1st July 2015 in Davis, CA, designed to open discussion on current models used by USACE, considering the limitations of each model, the role of modeler expertise versus model capability and uncertainty of input parameters for these models. The objective of this workshop was twofold: 1) to understand current USACE surface erosion modeling capabilities and impacts to projects and risk assessments; and 2) to provide direction for research to address deficiencies in surface erosion modeling. The workshop was attended by a variety of US Federal Agencies and universities. In addition, European capabilities were represented by Mark Morris (HR Wallingford) and Jean-Robert Courivaud (EDF). Mark Morris has considerable experience of research into levee and dam breach processes, having coordinated a number of pan European research projects focused on identifying key physical processes and developing associated predictive numerical models. Some of this earlier research was also in collaboration with Agencies such as USDA (HERU, Stillwater), ERDC (Vicksburg) and USBR (Dam Safety, Denver). Day 1 of the workshop focused on the history, validation and use of different breach models whilst Day 2 focused on research programmes related to surface erosion, how these programmes met current needs, and the priorities and direction for future research to support user focused model development. Workshop discussion included breach models such as HR BREACH, AREBA, EMBREA, WinDAM B, DL Breach etc and moved around the issues of breach model performance, performance comparison and how the models did or did not meet specific user requirements. A particular aspect for all models was whether they might be suited to possible future integration into the HEC RAS software so as to strengthen the breach modeling options therein. On Day 2 the workshop group focused on research programmes (current and planned) which would support improved understanding of levee performance and modeling of levee breach. In particular, discussions focused around non cohesive erosion processes and the transition between cohesive and non cohesive physical processes. Through the day, issues were identified and eventually prioritized leading to overall workshop agreement on research actions and their relative priorities. Discussion was also held about the potential for international research collaboration on selected topics. Each of the federal and European organizations have specific skills and resources which may be combined to offer a most effective team solution to address the core surface erosion / non cohesive breach modeling challenge. This opportunity is being followed by up Mike Sharp (ERDC), Jean-Robert Courivaud (EDF) and Mark Morris (HRW) with the goal of agreeing a potential programme of collaboration later in 2015. In conclusion, participation in this workshop by Mark Morris allowed European research knowledge, programmes and models to be introduced into the workshop discussions and for wider international agreement on the key issues and priorities to be achieved. The discussions also provided a foundation for establishing future research cooperation between US agencies and European organisations with a common interest in better understanding and predicting surface erosion in dams and levees.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 12, 2017
- Source ID
- W911NF1510271
Entities
People
- Mark Morris
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command