Tidal Circulation Modeling of a Georgia Coastal Sound
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Author(s)
Gross, Thomas F.
Werner, Francisco E.
Advisor(s)
Editor(s)
Hatcher, Kathryn J.
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Abstract
The circulation of a tidally forced
Georgia estuary is modeled to provide precise prediction
of surface currents. These predictions are useful
to determine contaminant plume spread (oil spill
potential), the transport routes of (shrimp and crab)
larvae into the sounds, etc. In the past, they have
been used to assist Savannah's 1996 Olympic yachting
events. Using a comprehensive nonlinear finite
element model which includes tidal- and wind forcing
and generates the three dimensional structure of
the circulation of Wassaw Sound, we demonstrate
the special boundary conditions needed to correctly
account for drainage from extensive marsh systems,
typical of the US South Atlantic Bight. Tidal forcing
from outside the sound is used to specify the
interior response of tidal creeks and channels. By
synthesizing the back water areas of the marsh flats,
the volume of the tidal prism can be correctly modeled
without the artificial specification of interior
tidal heights. Model results can be used to predict
Lagrangian (tracer) pathways, and identifying the
"hot spot" regions of mixing between the sound and
coastal ocean. Tracer pathways also demonstrate the
large variability of residence time within the marsh
and sounds encountered by different water masses.
Sponsor
Sponsored and Organized by: U.S. Geological Survey, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, The University of Georgia, Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology
Date
1997-03
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Resource Type
Text
Resource Subtype
Proceedings