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The circulation model, ADCIRC, within the COE Surface Water Modeling
System, was performed to quantify potential impacts in the Bay
Joe Wise system from the proposed marsh restoration. Impacts could
occur that would alter circulation processes resulting in changes
in sedimentation patterns. In addition, the results were evaluated
in terms of maintaining sufficient water levels and flow within
the bay system to support the newly created marsh. A 2-D mesh was
created using the measured topographic and bathymetric data. The
primary tidal forcing functions for this area were input along
the model's gulf boundary and water levels and flow velocities
were simulated throughout the mesh. Field data from measured current
and tide data were used to calibrate the model. To evaluate the
designs, the 2-D meshes were modified for each marsh fill template,
and circulation modeling for each design was conducted. Results
were evaluated to ensure the designs did not greatly reduce flow,
increase (causing potential scour) or decrease (causing potential
deposition) water velocities significantly, or cause significant
changes to water elevations through the bay system. The modeling
results indicated that significant changes to the flow through
the bay system are not anticipated provided the primary flow-way
leading from the bay's west side to Pass Chaland is maintained.
Other observed impacts to the simulated water levels and velocities
were minor and localized.
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