Validation of a hydrodynamic model of Delaware Bay and the adjacent coastal region
Date
2011
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Publisher
University of Delaware
Abstract
The goal of this research is to validate a hydrodynamic model of Delaware Bay and the coastal region surrounding it. The aim is to simulate all the major forces over a long period of time, and compare the results to a wide range of available measured data. The model used here is ROMS, an open source regional model that has been used successfully in similar applications. ROMS has been calibrated and set to run for four years, from January 1st 2006 to December 31st 2009. Tidal, wind, and river forcing are used to drive the simulation. There is measured data available from high frequency radars set up across the bay mouth, which measures surface currents over a large area outside of the mouth. Also, ADCP measurements were taken around the bay mouth for extended periods of time to provide 3D current data. Assessment of model and measured data is done with a complex correlation analysis, along with point comparisons. The results of these comparisons show that the model performs almost perfectly under tidal conditions, and still remains very accurate with the wind and river discharge forcing as well. Evaluation of 3D velocity profile data between the model and measured data indicates the model is performing correctly vertically as well. The large amount of data produced from the simulation allowed for an examination of buoyant plume activity in the area. The model shows the formation and dissolution of freshwater plumes under many discharge and wind conditions.