Fish activity impact on sediment erosion resuspension: Mathematical modeling and annular flume verification experiments

Olya Skulovich, Catrina Cofalla, Holger Schüttrumpf, Avi Ostfeld

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

The interaction between sediment and surrounding water is influenced by numerous physical-chemical parameters. The presented sediment transport model allows predicting suspended solids concentration in water phase as a function of applied shear stress, sediment grain diameter, and fish abundance measure. Experiments on erosion of natural sediments in the annular flume at RWTH Aachen University are used for model calibration. Empirical coefficients are evaluated with genetic algorithms to achieve the best model fit. The presented model shows enough flexibility to account for various sediment properties, including different sediment sources, natural and artificial contaminants, presence or absence of aquatic organisms, and results in average determination coefficient R2 = 90.4% between the model and the experimental data. Model simulation outcomes clearly show the essential to account for fish activity to predict the resuspension course correctly. Further sediment erosion experiments with carefully chosen conditions will allow more comprehensive model adjustment.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationWorld Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2017
Subtitle of host publicationWatershed Management, Irrigation and Drainage, and Water Resources Planning and Management - Selected Papers from the World Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2017
EditorsBrian Van Weele, Christopher N. Dunn
Pages710-726
Number of pages17
ISBN (Electronic)9780784480601
DOIs
StatePublished - 2017
Event17th World Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2017 - Sacramento, United States
Duration: 21 May 201725 May 2017

Publication series

NameWorld Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2017: Watershed Management, Irrigation and Drainage, and Water Resources Planning and Management - Selected Papers from the World Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2017

Conference

Conference17th World Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2017
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySacramento
Period21/05/1725/05/17

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Environmental Science

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