Three-Dimensional Modeling of Hydrodynamics and Salinity in the San Francisco Estuary: An Evaluation of Model Accuracy, X2, and the Low-Salinity Zone
General Material Designation
[Article]
First Statement of Responsibility
MacWilliams, Michael L.; Bever, Aaron J.; Gross, Edward S.; Ketefian, Gerard S.; Kimmerer, Wim J.
SUMMARY OR ABSTRACT
Text of Note
The three-dimensional UnTRIM San Francisco Bay-Delta model was applied to simulate tidal hydrodynamics and salinity in the San Francisco Estuary (estuary) using an unstructured grid. We compared model predictions to observations of water level, tidal flow, current speed, and salinity collected at 137 locations throughout the estuary. A quantitative approach based on multiple model assessment metrics was used to evaluate the model's accuracy for each comparison. These comparisons demonstrate that the model accurately predicted water level, tidal flow, and salinity during a 3-year simulation period that spanned a large range of flow and salinity conditions. The model is therefore suitable for detailed investigation of circulation patterns and salinity distributions in the estuary.
SET
Date of Publication
2015
Title
San Francisco Estuary and Watershed Science
Volume Number
13/1
PERSONAL NAME - PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY
Entry Element
MacWilliams, Michael L.; Bever, Aaron J.; Gross, Edward S.; Ketefian, Gerard S.; Kimmerer, Wim J.