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HARBOR AREA MANAGEMENT PLAN
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements
Technical Report
Prepared For:
Harbor Resources Division
City of Newport Beach
829 Harbor Island Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Prepared By:
Everest International Consultants, Inc.
444 West Ocean Boulevard, Suite 1104
Long Beach, CA 90802
With HAMP Team: Weston Solutions, Inc.
June 2009
Harbor Area Management Plan
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................... ...............................
1
1.1 Background ................................................................................ ..............................1
1.2 Objectives .................................................................................. ..............................2
1.3 Organization ............................................................................... ..............................2
1.4 Previous Numerical Models for Newport Bay ........................... ..............................2
2.0
AVAILABLE NUMERICAL MODELS ............................................ ...............................
5
2.1 RMA10 ...................................................................................... ..............................5
2.2 RMAl1 ...................................................................................... ..............................6
2.3 C1I31) ......................................................................................... ..............................6
2.4 CE- QUAL- ICM/ TOXI .............................................................. ..............................7
2.5 EFDC ......................................................................................... ..............................8
3.0
NUMERICAL MODEL EVALUATION ............................................ ...............................
9
3.1 Fundamentals of Numerical Modeling ...................................... ..............................9
3.2 Model Selection Criteria .......................................................... ..............................1
l
4.0
NUMERICAL MODEL COMPARISONS ....................................... ...............................
12
4.1 Comparison of Mathematical Formulation ............................... .............................12
4.2 Comparison of Numerical Methods .......................................... .............................14
4.3 Comparison of Water Quality Applications ............................. .............................14
4.4 Comparison of Watershed Model Interfacing ........................... .............................15
4.5 Comparison of User - Friendly Adaptations ............................... .............................16
4.6 Comparison of Model Applications in Newport Bay and Southern California.....
17
5.0
MODEL RECOMMENDATIONS .................................................... ...............................
18
6.0
DATA REQUIREMENTS ................................................................. ...............................
19
7.0
REFERENCES .................................................................................. ...............................
20
8
Harbor Area Management Plan
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1. Prior Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Model Studies for Newport Bay ....................... 4
Table 2. Comparison of Mathematical Formulations .................................... ............................... 13
Table 3. Comparison of Numerical Methods ................................................. ............................... 14
Table 4. Comparison of Water Quality Applications .................................... ............................... 15
Table 5. Comparison of Watershed Model Interfacing ................................. ............................... 16
Table 6. Comparison of Model Application in Newport Bay ........................ ............................... 17
Table 7. Model Evaluation for Estuarine System Summary .......................... ............................... 18
f�[.�r�T�[eI117x.9
Figure 1. Tidal Flushing of Newport Bay ........................................................ ............................... 1
Harbor Area Management Plan
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
Numerical models are widely used as a management decision making tool in addressing
sediment and water quality problems, including several numerical modeling efforts specifically
for Newport Bay. Numerical models are used to simulate hydrodynamic conditions (e.g., flows,
water surface elevations, and velocities) and water quality transport (e.g., sediment or salinity)
within a river, estuary, or bay. Changes to hydrodynamic and water quality conditions are used
to evaluate alternatives or management decisions such as dredging strategies or storm drain
diversions to improve water quality. Numerical models are also used to understand the physical
environment of the bay to aid in decision making to address water quality issues. For example,
the tidal flushing of pollutants (i.e., rate at which pollutants locally dissipate due to tidal mixing)
varies significantly by location in the bay, as illustrated in Figure 1. Pollutant discharges to the
back ends of the bay (indicated in red) do not disperse as easily as discharges to the main
channel. As such, appropriate management strategies to improve water quality such as source
reductions or circulation improvement may differ based on where the pollutant source is located.
Figure 1. Tidal Flushing of Newport Bay
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Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
1.2 Objectives
Development of a hydrodynamic and water quality numerical model for Newport Bay can be
used to evaluate many of the proposed strategies and BMPs developed for the Harbor Area
Management Plan (HAMP). Selection of the most appropriate numerical model for Newport
Bay was evaluated using the following objectives:
• Review existing water quality reports based on numerical modeling of Newport Bay
Identify the most compatible and efficient models that can address water quality
issues, as well as predicting sediment depositions throughout Upper and Lower
Newport Bay
Provide recommendations for model enhancements of an existing model or
development of a new model for Newport Bay
Provide a list of information or data requirements needed to develop a numerical
model for Newport Bay
1.3 Organization
This technical report supports recommendations in the HAMP relating to developing a numerical
model tool for Newport Bay. Numerical models were identified based on a review of previous
models developed for Newport Bay and other available models. Models were then evaluated
based on model selection criteria developed to select the most appropriate model. The report is
concluded with data requirements necessary to develop a model.
1.4 Previous Numerical Models for Newport Bay
Prior modeling studies of Newport Bay or portions of Newport Bay have been primarily
conducted by three agencies: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Los Angeles District,
State Water Resources Control Board ( SWRCB), and the City of Newport Beach.
USACE has developed a 2D hydrodynamic and sediment transport model (RMA2 and RMA11)
of Newport Bay in support of the UNB Ecosystem Restoration Feasibility Study (USAGE,
2000). The USACE model was used to evaluate sediment deposition impacts of four dredging
alternatives representing different sediment management measures (USACE 1999). The
evaluation of the alternatives was based on the sediment trapping efficiencies of sediment basins
within UNB relative to a no project condition. The USACE model was developed in several
phases between 1993 and 1999. The hydrodynamic model was calibrated to water surface
elevation and velocity measurements made in 1992 (USACE, 1993). The sediment transport
model was calibrated to bathymetry changes between October 1985 and February 1997
(USACE, 1997 and 1998). The model was also used to simulate salinity fluctuations during dry
and wet weather conditions (USACE, 1998).
The SWRCB funded the RWQCB Upper Newport Bay Water Quality Model Development
Study to further develop the USACE model to develop and calibrate a 3D hydrodynamic and
Harbor Area Management Plan
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
water quality model (RMA10 and RMA11) to simulate stratified flows (SWRCB, 2003). A31)
model was determined to be necessary to simulate low flow, neap tide and wet weather
conditions. The numerical grid was developed as a combination of 2D and 3D areas to minimize
computation times. The SWRCB model was used to evaluate transport conditions in Newport
Bay by analyzing mass distributions of conservative and settleable constituents (i.e., tracer)
under low flow and three storm flow conditions. The conservative tracer represents a dissolved
constituent with no settling velocity, while a settleable tracer represents sediment with no
resuspension. The model was calibrated to salinity measurements (SARWQCB 2001).
The City of Newport Beach has also developed several 2D hydrodynamic and water quality
models (RMA2 and RMA4) to analyze circulation and mixing in different areas of Newport Bay.
Several circulation improvement projects were analyzed for Newport Dunes and Newport Island
Channels. Storm drain discharges into LNB were evaluated for relative impacts to the bay as
part of a storm drain diversion project. A model of the entire bay was also developed and
calibrated to water level and velocity data. The City model is also currently being used to
evaluated discharges from the bay to areas of biological significance (ASBS) located downcoast
from the bay.
These prior modeling studies are summarized in Table 1. The first three columns of the table
show the agency responsible for the study, the year the study was completed and the study area,
respectively. The next three columns show the model and model type used for the study and the
constituents being simulated. A brief summary for each of the model study is also provided in
the last column of the table.
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Table 1. Prior Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Model Studies for Newport Bay
' Upper Newport Bay
z Newport Island Channels
FOCUS
MODEL
MODEL
SIMULATED
REFERENCE
YEAR
SUMMARY
AREA
USED
TYPE
CONSTITUENTS
RMA2
Assessment of suitable models for
USACE
1993
UNB
RMA4
2D
Dye
circulation and water quality modeling
and initial model development.
Phase 1 to develop sediment transport
1997
UNB
RMA11
2D
Sediment
model including model calibration and
50 -year without project simulations.
Phase 2 in development of sediment
1998
UNB
RMA2
2D
Sediment
transport model including final model
RMA11
calibration, extreme flow condition, and
50 -year without project simulations.
Salinity fluctuations attributed to dry and
1998
UNB
RMA4
2D
Salinity
wet weather freshwater inflows between
1995 and 1998.
Phase 3 for Alternative evaluation of
RMA2
sediment deposition impacts using
1999
UNB
RMA11
2D
Sediment
calibrated sediment transport model for
no project and 4 dredging alternatives.
Conservative
Phase 1 of the UNB Water Quality
SWRCB
2003
UNB
RMA2 /11
2D and
tracer, settable
Model to simulate 3D stratified flow
RMA10 /11
3D
tracer, and
under dry and wet weather conditions.
sediment
City of
Newport
RMA2
Feasibility study to evaluate using
Newport
2002
Dunes
RMA4
2D
Tracer
mechanical devices to improve water
Beach
and NIC ?
circulation and mixing.
Feasibility study to evaluate using
2003
NIC
RMA4
2D
Tracer
submerged pumps to improve water
circulation and mixing.
Evaluation of storm drains for dry
2004
LNB
RMA4
2D
Tracer
weather flow diversion program to
reduce bacteria levels.
2005
Bay
RMA2
2D
N/A
Hydrodynamic model calibration
2007
Bay
RMA2
2D
Tracer
Evaluation of impacts of discharges from
entrance
RMA4
Newport Bay to ASBS.
' Upper Newport Bay
z Newport Island Channels
Harbor Area Management Plan
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
2.0 AVAILABLE NUMERICAL MODELS
The hydrodynamics and sediment transport in Newport Bay and Harbor are highly complex as a
result of the complex geometry of the network of channels and beaches in the Lower Newport
Bay and the inter -tidal areas in the Upper Newport Bay. Hence, only 3D hydrodynamic and
water quality models capable of simulating both water quality constituents and sediment
deposition in a complex estuarine system are considered for the development of a Newport Bay
hydrodynamic and sediment transport model. The following 3D models were selected for
evaluation:
• RMA10 — Multi- dimensional hydrodynamic, salinity, and sediment transport model
• RMAI 1 — Multi- dimensional water quality and sediment transport model
• CH31) — Multi- dimensional hydrodynamic, salinity, temperature, and non - cohesive
sediment transport model
• CE- QUAL -ICM — Multi - dimensional water quality model
• EFDC — Multi- dimensional hydrodynamic, water quality, and sediment transport
model
A brief description of the model capabilities are provided below, while details of the technical
capabilities are provided in Section 3.0.
2.1 RMA10
RMA 10 is a multi - dimensional finite element numerical model written in FORTRAN -77. It is
capable of steady or dynamic simulation of three dimensional hydrodynamics, salinity, and
sediment transport. The primary features of RMA 10 are as follows:
• Coupling of advection and diffusion of temperature, salinity and sediment to the
hydrodynamics
• Multi- dimensional — 1D, 2D depth- averaged or laterally- averaged and 3D elements
within a single mesh
• Depth- averaged elements can be made wet and dry during a simulation
RMA 10 was originally developed by Dr. Ian King of Resource Management Associates, Inc.
with funding provided by USACE WES. Similar to CH31), WES has made modifications to the
original model and integrated the model into the TABS Series since its development. The
FORTRAN model code is proprietary; however, the executable and source code are available for
purchase. USACE WES also distributes the model, but provides technical support only to
USACE users. This model requires purchasing pre- and post - processing software.
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2.2 RMA11
RMA11 is a finite element water quality model for simulation of three - dimensional estuaries,
bays, lakes and rivers. RMAI I can model temperature with a full atmospheric heat budget at the
water surface, BOD /COD, dissolved oxygen, nitrogen cycle (including organic nitrogen,
ammonia, nitrite and nitrates), phosphorous cycle (including organic phosphorous and
phosphates), Algae growth and decay, cohesive suspended sediment, non - cohesive suspended
sediment, and other constituents such as tracers or E -coli. The primary features of RMA11
include the following:
• Shares the same capabilities of the RMA2 /RMA10 hydrodynamics models including
irregular boundary configurations, variable element size, one - dimensional elements,
and the wetting and drying of shallow portions of the modeled region
• Velocities supplied may be constant or interpolated from an input file from another
hydrodynamic model (e.g., RMA2 or RMA10 velocity and depth output)
• Source pollutants loads may be input to the system either at discrete points, over
elements, or as fixed boundary values
• In formulating the element equations, the element coordinate system is realigned with
the local flow direction. This permits the longitudinal and transverse diffusion terms
to be separated, with the net effect being to limit excessive constituent dispersion in
the direction transverse to flow
• For increased computational efficiency, up to fifteen constituents may be modeled at
one time, each with separately defined loading, decay and initial conditions
• A multi -layer bed model for the cohesive sediment transport constituent keeps track
of thickness and consolidation of each layer.
Similar to RMA10, RMA11 was originally developed by Dr. Ian King of Resource Management
Associates, Inc. with modifications done by USACE WES. The FORTRAN model code is
proprietary; however, the executable and source code are available for purchase. USACE WES
also distributes the model, but provides technical support only to USACE users. This model
requires purchasing pre- and post - processing software.
2.3 CHM
CH31) (Curvilinear Hydrodynamics in Three Dimensions) is the newly developed CH3D -SED, a
mobile bed version combined with CH3D -WES, a time - varying three- dimensional numerical
hydrodynamic, salinity, and temperature model. CH3D -WES simulates physical processes
impacting circulation and vertical mixing that are modeled include tides, wind, density effects
(temperature and salinity), freshwater inflows, turbulence, and the effect of earth rotation.
CH3D -SED functions as a 2D or 3D hydrodynamic and sediment transport model that can also
be linked to the water quality model, CE- QUAL -ICM. CH3D -SED can simulate cohesive and
non - cohesive sediment and account for settling, deposition, and resuspension. Additional
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features of the model include user - specified multiple - grain -size distribution and independently
tracking of each grain size specification.
CH313 was originally developed by Dr. Peter Sheng (1986) for USACE WES. Since then WES
has made substantial upgrades for the Chesapeake Bay Program. This model is not freely
available and no support is available to users outside of USACE. However, model development
and application is possible through a cooperative agreement with USACE.
2.4 CE- QUAL- ICWTOXI
CE- QUAL- ICMITOXI is a water quality model that includes a eutrophication model (ICM) and
an organic chemical model (ICM/TOXI). The release version of the eutrophication model
computes 22 state variables including physical properties; multiple forms of algae, carbon,
nitrogen, phosphorus, and silica; and dissolved oxygen. ICMJTOXI includes physical processes
such as sorption to DOC and three solid classes, volatilization, and sedimentation; and chemical
processes such as ionization, hydrolysis, photolysis, oxidation, and biodegradation. The model
computes constituent concentrations resulting from transport and transformations in well -mixed
cells that can be arranged in arbitrary one -, two -, or three- dimensional configurations. The
model does not compute hydrodynamics and requires hydrodynamic inputs such as the CH3D-
WES model. Other features of CE- QUAL- ICM/TOXI are:
• Operational in one -, two -, or three- dimensional configurations
• Unstructured, finite volume structure of the model facilitates linkage to a variety of
hydrodynamic models
• Features to aid debugging include the ability to activate or deactivate model features,
diagnostic output, and volumetric and mass balances
• Each state variable may individually activated or deactivated
• Includes diagenetic sediment sub -model the interactively predicts sediment -water
oxygen and nutrient fluxes
• Simulates temperature, salinity, three solids classes, and three chemicals (total
chemical for organic chemicals and trace metals). Each species can exist in five
phases (water, DOC- sorbed, and sorbed to three solids types) via local equilibrium
partitioning.
CE -QUAL -ICM water quality model was initially developed by USACE WES CHL as part of
the Chesapeake Bay Program. The ICM/TOXI model resulted from incorporating the toxic
chemical routines from EPA's WASP (Water Analysis Simulation Program) model into the
transport code for ICM, incorporating a more detailed benthic sediment model, and enhancing
linkages to sediment transport models. The model FORTRAN code is not proprietary, but is
only available to USACE users.
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2.5 EFDC
The EFDC (Environmental Fluid Dynamics Code) is a 2D or 3D hydrodynamic and water
quality model. EFDC transports salinity, temperature, simple constituents (e.g., tracer), cohesive
or noncohesive sediments, and toxic contaminants (e.g., metals or organics). The water quality
model HEM -31) (Hydrodynamic- Eutrophication Model) with twenty -one state variables has
been integrated with EFDC. This water quality component simulates the spatial and temporal
distributions of dissolved oxygen, suspended algae (three groups), various components of
carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and silica cycles, and fecal coliform bacteria. Other features of
EFDC include:
• Simulates wetting and drying
• Hydraulic structures for controlled flow systems
• Vegetation resistance for wetlands
• High frequency surface wave radiation stresses in nearshore zones
• Optional bottom boundary layer submodel allows for wave - current boundary layer
interaction
• Equilibrium partitioning between the aqueous and solid phases of toxic constituents
• Sediment process model with twenty -seven state variables that simulates POM
diagenesis and the resulting fluxes of inorganic substances (ammonium, nitrate,
phosphate, and silica) and sediment oxygen demand back to the water column
• Coupling of the sediment process model with the water quality model enhances the
predictive capability of water quality parameters and enables it to simulate the long-
term changes in water quality conditions in response to changes in nutrient loading.
EFDC was originally developed by Dr. John Hamrick of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science
at the College of William and Mary and is currently supported by Tetra Tech, Inc for USEPA.
The FORTRAN model code is not proprietary. EFDC model execution file (without GUI) can
be freely downloaded from EPA website.
Harbor Area Management Plan
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Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
3.0 NUMERICAL MODEL EVALUATION
The primary purpose of a numerical model for Newport Bay is a management decision - making
tool to address water quality issues and in particular, sediment deposition in the bay. In
determining the most compatible and efficient model for Newport Bay, model selection criteria
were established, then the models described above were compared based on the established
selection criteria. In the next section, a brief discussion of the fundamentals of numerical
modeling is first presented to provide some background on numerical modeling basics, followed
by the model selection criteria in Section 3.2.
3.1 Fundamentals of Numerical Modeling
Simulation of fluid motion in the environment (i.e., hydrodynamic modeling) is the basis for
simulating contaminant transport (i.e., water quality modeling). The fundamentals of numerical
modeling are summarized in the following three types: mathematical modeling, numerical
modeling, and water quality modeling.
Mathematical Modeling is the process by which the physical world (e.g., water motion in the
bay) is represented by a set of mathematical equations. Prediction of fluid motion in estuaries
requires solving the following mathematical equations.
Mass and momentum conservation equations — For an incompressible fluid such as water, mass
and momentum (three equations that balance forces in each of the three spatial dimensions) are
conserved.
Transport equations for scalars that affect fluid density — One of the key features of estuarine
water is that its density depends on salinity, temperature, and, in some cases, suspended
particulate matter (i.e., scalars). Therefore, mathematical models for estuarine flow typically
include transport equations which describe the spatiotemporal distribution of these scalars.
Equation ofstate —The equation ofstate relates the transported scalars (e.g., salinity,
temperature, or suspended particulate matter) to the fluid density.
Turbulence model equations — Another key feature of estuarine water is that it is in a state of
turbulence, which consists of seemingly random motions superimposed upon fairly coherent
motion known as the mean flow. While there has been success in recent years simulating
turbulent fluid motions, including the seemingly random component, it is not presently practical
to do so at the scale of a river or harbor. Mathematical models of turbulent fluid motion predict
only the mean flow. Therefore, turbulence models and associated algebraic and transport
equations must also be used to account for the effect of random motions on the mean flow.
Numerical Modeling is the process by which the algebraic and differential equations that
constitute the mathematical model are solved to give the water surface elevation, water pressure,
three components of velocity, and scalars such as salinity, temperature, and sediment
concentration. This process is broken down below, along with a summary of each step in the
process.
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Model Domain Discretization — All numerical methods predict flow variables at a finite set of
discrete points and time levels. The discrete points are organized as a computational grid made
up of cells or elements, which can be either structured or unstructured. A checkerboard is an
example of a structured grid, for there is a repeating pattern: every red square is surrounded by
four black squares and vice- versa. Structured grids may be either rectilinear (all cells are
rectangles) or curvilinear (all cells are simply quadrilateral and therefore may be distorted so the
mesh conforms to the boundary of the study area). Curvilinear, structured grids may be either
orthogonal or non - orthogonal. An orthogonal grid is one where four 90 degree angles can be
observed at each cell vertex. Structured grids are more difficult to set up for domains
characterized by islands and branching channels and does not support localized grid refinement,
but require less computational overhead. In addition, global refinement of structured grids is
quite simple (each cell can be divided into two or four smaller cells), but this may add grid
resolution where it is not needed. However, globalized grid refinement is sometimes preferred
over localized grid refinement because the latter may promote unphysical reflections where the
resolution suddenly changes. With unstructured grids, there is no repeating pattern.
Unstructured grids are generally easiest to set up and refine and facilitate localized grid
refinement, but require the most computational overhead.
Numerical Methods — Finite difference, finite element, and finite volume methods represent three
different numerical modeling methods. Finite difference schemes use only structured grids.
Finite element schemes typically use unstructured grids, but may also use structured grids. Finite
volume schemes, which are closely related to finite difference schemes, may be designed for
either structured or unstructured grids.
Spatial and Temporal Limitations — Recognizing that typical horizontal grid resolutions in harbor
simulations are on the order of 10m, and that a minimum of 5 to 8 cells are necessary to resolve a
particular flow feature, it becomes clear that under ideal circumstances the smallest resolvable
flow features will be on the order of 100m in length. Moreover, with a time step on the order of
a minute, the highest frequency fluctuations that could possibly be predicted will have periods on
the order of 5 -10 minutes.
Numerical Modeling Errors — Limitations of model predictions are driven by both the
mathematical model and the numerical solution method. For example, a common mathematical
approximation is to assume that fluid pressure is hydrostatic, (i.e., pressure is only a function of
the fluid density and distance below the surface). This approximation limits the applicability of
estuarine models to slowly varying flows, such as those driven by tides, and excludes flow
scenarios involving shorter period waves such as ocean swell and ship wakes. A common
numerical approximation is to assume that spatial derivatives of an arbitrary dependent variable
q are given by the difference in q between neighboring grid points, divided by the distance
between these points. However, there are truncation errors associated with this approach which
increase as the grid points get farther apart. Moreover, the truncation errors may be either
diffusive or dispersive depending upon the numerical model. Diffusive errors will tend to smear
out an otherwise sharp front, which can lead to problems when trying to sharply resolve stratified
flow. Dispersive errors introduce physically meaningless oscillations near sharp fronts that may
grow with time causing a numerical model to "crash" (i.e., stop running).
10
Harbor Area Management Plan
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
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Water Quality Modeling is based on the following mathematical equations that describe the
spatial and temporal variability of constituents such as salinity, heat, suspended solids, nutrients,
dissolved oxygen, and metals. Water quality models essentially consist of a set of transport
equations that are coupled to each other by mass balance equations that account for gains and
losses.
Transport equations — In estuarine systems, the spatial and temporal distribution of estuarine
currents predicted by the hydrodynamic model is used to account for advection and turbulent
diffusion of constituents which is the basis for the linkage between water quality models and
hydrodynamic models. Advection is the transport of constituents by the mean flow and turbulent
diffusion is the mixing of constituents by turbulent fluid motions. Additional transport equations
are used to account for the transport of constituents sorbed to mobile sediment.
Mass balance equations — Simulates gains and losses of constituents due to physical, chemical,
and/or biological processes and gains and losses due to exchanges at fluid boundaries (e.g., free
surface and bed). Additional mass balance equations are used to account for changes in
constituent concentrations in sediments.
Hydrodynamic coupling— While the transport of some constituents has no bearing on the
hydrodynamic state of the estuary, others affect the fluid density which, in turn, affects the flow.
Hence, in some cases there is a one -way coupling between the hydrodynamics and water quality
(e.g., trace contaminants), while in others there exists a two -way coupling (previously mentioned
as scalars that affect fluid density). For hydrodynamic and water quality models that are
designed as two separate codes, it is important and logical for the hydrodynamic code to account
for all two -way coupling of constituents; while the water quality code should account for all one-
way coupled constituents.
3.2 Model Selection Criteria
The model selection criteria were established based on suitability of simulating the
hydrodynamics and transport characteristics of Newport Bay, as well as the capability of
anticipated applications of the model. Each model was evaluated in terms of the following
aspects:
• Mathematical formulation for an estuarine system
• Numerical methods
• Water quality applications
• Watershed model interfacing
• User - friendly adaptations
• Prior applications within Newport Bay and/or at other similar locations.
11
Harbor Area Management Plan
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
4.0 NUMERICAL MODEL COMPARISONS
The simulation of hydrodynamics, water quality, and sediment transport can be accomplished
using one or more of the available 3 -D models. The following models or combination of models
were compared and evaluated based on the model selection criteria to determine which is best
suited to support hydrodynamic and water quality modeling of Newport Bay.
• RMA10 and RMAI l
• CH3D and CE- QUAL -ICM
• EFDC
Salient features of the mathematical formulation and numerical solution method of CH31),
EFDC, and RMA10, as well as water quality applications, data input features, and prior
applications are summarized below. The technical strengths and weaknesses of the mathematical
formulation and numerical methods of these models are examined in Sections 4.1 and 4.2. Water
quality applications of each model are compared in Section 4.3. Data input structures which
govern the ease of interfacing with a watershed model and user - friendly adaptability are also
compared between the models in Sections 4.4 and 4.5. Finally, prior applications of the three
models in Newport Bay are discussed in Section 4.6.
Limited documentation creates some level of ambiguity regarding details of RMA10. In
addition, there are several versions of CH31) (some supported by WES and others by Dr. Peter
Sheng), each with different features. Comments below mainly apply to CH3D -WES, though in
some cases additional references made to other versions of CH313.
4.1 Comparison of Mathematical Formulation
A comparison of the mathematical fonnulation for each model is summarized in Table 2. The
mathematical formulation of these models is far more similar than different. However,
differences do exist in the turbulence model and Equation of State for density, which may bear
on the applicability of these models to Newport Bay. First, CH3D uses a k -e (k- epsilon)
turbulence model, which has been widely used in channel flows particularly pressure driven
flows. Whereas, most ocean and estuary models including EFDC and RMA10/RMA11, use the
Mellor - Yamada Level 2.5 turbulence model. However, a recent study found that both models
similarly predict the shape, concentration, and position of turbidity maxima in an estuarine test
problem. Second, CH31) and EFDC compute density as a function of salinity and temperature,
and solve dynamically coupled equations for these scalars. RMA10 appears to include an option
to also dynamically couple sediment transport predictions, allowing density to also be computed
in terms of suspended particulate matter. If suspended sediment concentrations control the
vertical density structure in Newport Bay (in general this is applicable when suspended sediment
concentrations exceed 10,000 mg /L), dynamically coupled sediment transport equations would
be advantageous. However, with access to the model source code it is likely that both EFDC and
CH313 can be modified to support this functionality.
12
Harbor Area Management Plan
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
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13
Harbor Area Management Plan
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
4.2 Comparison of Numerical Methods
The comparison of numerical methods is presented in Table 3. The numerical methods adopted
by CH3D and EFDC are nearly identical, but far different from the approach adopted by
RMA10 /11. Therefore, on numerical grounds there is little basis for the numerical performance
of CH3D and EFDC to differ. A well -known deficiency of the Galerkin finite element method
used by RMA10 /11 is the required artificial dissipation to avoid stability problems. The use of
an unrealistically large eddy viscosity to stabilize the hydrodynamic predictions will lead to
over - prediction of contaminant mixing by turbulent diffusion unless unphysically large values of
the turbulent Schmidt number (ratio of momentum diffusion to scalar diffusion) are also used. In
addition, the Galerkin finite element method is not well- suited to channel flows with fast currents
and is only suitable for subcritical (slow) flows.
Table 3. Comparison of Numerical Methods
NUMERICAL
CH31) AND CE- QUAL -ICM
EFDC
RNIA10 AND RMAll
METHOD
Structured, curvilinear, non-
Structured, curvilinear,
Computational Grid
orthogonal grid of quadrilateral
orthogonal grid of
quadrilateral cells including
Unstructured grid
cells
cut cells at model boundaries
Vertical Grid
Scheme
Sigma coordinate or z coordinate
Sigma coordinate
Sigma coordinate
Spatial
Discretization and
Semi - Implicit Finite Difference
Semi - Implicit Finite
Difference (External- Internal
Galerkin Finite Element
Time - Stepping
(External - Internal Mode Splitting)
Mode Splitting)
(Theta time - stepping)
Scheme
Not supported based on existing
Supported — using
documentation. Versions of
Supported —using element
element elimination
Wetting and Drying
CH3D supported by Dr. Peter
elimination method
method or Marsh Porosity
Sheng appear to support this
method
feature
Not supported based on existing
Random Walk
documentation. Versions of
Unclear whether it is
Particle Tracking
CH3D supported by Dr. Peter
Supported
supported
Sheng appear to support this
feature
4.3 Comparison of Water Quality Applications
Water quality applications are similar between the models. All three models can directly or
indirectly simulate a full range of water quality constituents (Table 4) including simple
constituents (e.g., tracer or bacteria), cohesive and non - cohesive sediment, metals, organics,
cutrophication (including nitrogen cycle, phosphorus cycle, biological oxygen demand, chemical
oxygen demand, and dissolved oxygen). The only major difference is the linkage between the
hydrodynamic and water quality components in which EFDC utilizes one combined model,
while the other models use two separate components (one hydrodynamic and one water quality
model).
14
Harbor Area Management Plan
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
Table 4. Comparison of Water Ouality Applications
CONSTITUENT
CH3D AND CE- QUAL -ICM
EFDC
RMA10 AND RMAII
Salinity
Dynamically coupled with
Dynamically coupled with
Dynamically coupled
hydrodynamics
hydrodynamics
with hydrodynamics
Temperature
Dynamically coupled with
Dynamically coupled with
Dynamically coupled
hydrodynamics
hydrodynamics
with hydrodynamics
Suspended load, bed load,
Dynamically coupled
Sediment Transport
Suspended load, bed load,
deposition, and resuspension
With hydrodynamics,
suspended load, bed
deposition, and resuspension
including wave induced
load, deposition, and
resuspension
resuspension
Cohesive Sediment
Supported
Supported
Supported
Non - cohesive
Up to three sediment classes
Multi- classes with variable
Supported
sediment
settling velocity and grain size
Simple Constituent
Up to three constituents
Arbitrary number with decay
Up to 15 constituents
Up to three constituents and
Arbitrary number with varying
sorption to three sediment
partitioning coefficients and
Metals or Organics
classes and dissolved organic
sorption to sediment classes,
Supported
carbon
particulate organic carbon,
and dissolved organic carbon
21 -state variable
22 -state variable
eutrophication model with 27-
BOD, COD, DO,
Eutrophication
eutrophication model with
state variable sediment
nitrogen cycle,
diagenic sediment sub -model
biogeochemical process
phosphorus cycle, algae
model or simplified 9 -state
growth and decay
variable eutrophication model
4.4 Comparison of Watershed Model Interfacing
As a management - decision making tool, it is important that the 31) hydrodynamic and water
quality model developed for Newport Bay can be easily interfaced with other watershed models.
Linking the 31) model with a watershed model provides a tool to evaluate the effectiveness of
source control measures within the watershed in reducing pollutant levels within the bay,
Current programs or activities to reduce pollutants within the Newport Bay include the Upper
Sediment Control Plan, dredging of LNB, implementation of BMPs throughout the watershed,
and the Nitrogen and Selenium Management Program (NSMP). These programs or activities on
transport of pollutants can be incorporated into a 3D model to determine the effect on transport
of pollutants in the bay. For example, dredging strategies have previously been evaluated using
numerical models to select sediment management controls in UNB as discussed previously in
Section 1.4. Likewise, management strategies to reduce the pollutant sources can also be
reflected in a 3D model to estimate corresponding reductions in pollutant levels within the bay.
15
Harbor Area Management Plan
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
For example, the NSMP includes the development of explicit conceptual models for selenium
and nitrogen for the Newport Bay watershed to describe the movement of selenium/nitrogen
through the watershed (i.e., identify sources, fate, and transport). This model would also be used
as a management decision tool. Linkages of the selenium/nitrogen sources entering the bay with
a 3D hydrodynamic and water quality model would allow a greater accuracy of predicting where
these pollutants are transported upon entering the bay.
In general, a 3D hydrodynamic and water quality model can be linked to a watershed model via
specifications of input flows and pollutant loads. Ideally, the watershed model interfacing
capabilities would include flexible inputs to allow specifying 3D stratification of flow (i.e., apply
input flows and pollutant loads at varying water depths). Watershed model interfacing
capabilities of each model are described in Table 5. EFDC provides the most flexible interfacing
with a watershed model since inflow, temperature, salinity and suspended sediments can all be
applied to different water layers of the model (i.e. can be applied at different water depth). The
current version of CH3D only allows inflow to be averaged over the water depth even though
different temperatures can be assigned to different water layers. It is not clear whether inflow,
temperature, salinity can be applied to different water layers for RMA10.
Table 5. Comparison of Watershed Model Interfacing
MODEL INPUT
C1131) AND CE- QUAL -ICM
EFDC
RMA10 AND RMAI1
Constant or time - varying flow
Constant or time - varying
Inflow
averaged over water depth
Constant or time - varying flow
flow or —
unknowwn n whether can be
(cannot input flow at different
applied at any given layer
applied to different water
water depths)
depth
Temperature
Input at any layer at inflow
boundary
Assigned with inflow
Assigned with inflow
Salinity
Can only input fresh water at
Assigned with inflow
Assigned with inflow
inflow boundary
Suspended Sediment
Only available with certain
version of the model
Assigned with inflow
Assigned with inflow
4.5 Comparison of User - Friendly Adaptations
In addition to interfacing with other watershed models, user - friendly adaptations to site - specific
conditions or user - defined applications would allow greater applications as a management -
decision making tool. User - friendly adaptations refer to the flexibility to accommodate user -
desired capabilities in the future such as a graphical user interface (GUI) to create, simulate, or
view model results or to expand model capabilities to simulate a site specific unique situation
that the model is currently not set up for.. Expansion of model capabilities would require the use
of a non - proprietary model with publicly available model source code. As such, the model
source code could be revised to add model capabilities that may be needed in the future. Use of
a non - proprietary model allows easier integration with future models, access for other
stakeholders to utilize the model, and use in future grant funded studies since some state funded
grants require providing all model executable and source codes.
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Harbor Area Management Plan
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
All models evaluated are non - proprietary models, but only the source code for EFDC is publicly
available. RMA10 and RMA1 l have an associated GUI to pre- and post - process model inputs
and results, but require purchasing of the necessary software. This can limit the use of the model
by the various stakeholders. On the other hand, EFDC does not have an associated GUI, but
since the source code is available, it can be modified to accommodate other GUI software, hence
provided greater flexibility for the user to pre- and post - process the data and results.
4.6 Comparison of Model Applications in Newport Bay and Southern
California
Prior model applications in Newport Bay are summarized in Table 6. The RMA10 and RMAI l
models have been extensively used to simulate tidal circulation and sediment transport in UNB.
This provides an obvious advantage over CH31) or EFDC since the past model calibration efforts
has proved that the model can be applied to Newport Bay. In addition, a model grid has already
been setup for the bay that can be easily modified and calibrated for LNB. Although CH3D and
EFDC have not been used for Newport Bay, both models have been used in other similar
estuarine applications in Southern California and can be used for Newport Bay. Recently, EFDC
is becoming popular for TMDL applications, particular in Southern California.
Table 6. Comparison of Model Applic ation in Newport Bay
CH3D AND CE- QUAL -1CM
EFDC
RM10 AND RMAll
CH313 has not applied to
EFDC has not been applied to
RMA10 and RMA11 have been extensively
Newport Bay. However, the
Newport Bay. However, the
used in Newport Bay. USACE has
model has been used
model has been applied to the
developed a 2D hydrodynamic and
extensively for the Los
Los Angeles /Long Beach Harbor.
sediment transport model (RMA2 and
Angeles /Long Beach Harbor.
The applications in the Los
RMA11) in support of the UNB Ecosystem
The applications in the Los
Angeles /Long Beach Harbor
Restoration Feasibility Study ( USACE
Angeles /Long Beach Harbor
included hydrodynamic and
2000). The USACE model was used to
included hydrodynamic
water quality calibration for
evaluate sediment deposition impacts of
calibration for tidal and wind-
salinity, TSS, and metal for
four dredging alternatives representing
driven circulation and water
Dominguez Channel Estuary.
different sediment management measures.
quality simulations with CE-
EFDC has been used or is being
The evaluation of the alternatives was
QUAL -ICM for the Cabrillo
developed for several TMDL
based on the sediment trapping efficiencies
Beach Basin.
applications in Southern
of sediment basins within UNB relative to a
California.
no project condition.
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Harbor Area Management Plan
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
5.0 MODEL RECOMMENDATIONS
An overview of the model evaluation is summarized in Table 7. On the basis of the
mathematical formulation and numerical method, EFDC and RMA10 /RMAI l appear better
suited for modeling Newport Bay than CH31). Although CH3D is capable of simulating
estuarine systems, it is better suited for channel flows as opposed to intertidal areas as is the case
in UNB. All three models have similar water quality application capabilities. In terms of
interfacing with a watershed model, EFDC and RMA10 /RMAI I have greater flexibility.
Table 7. Model Evaluation for Estuarine System Summary
+ indicates a model better meets the evaluation criteria.
There are no compelling reasons to select RMAI0/RMAl l over EFDC or vice versa on the basis
of the mathematical formulation, numerical methods, or water quality applications. However,
there are some other advantages and disadvantages of each model. RMA10 and RMAI I have
the advantage of being successfully applied in UNB for hydrodynamics and sediment transport.
However, EFDC is becoming popular for TMDL applications, particularly in Southern
California. RMA10 and RMAI l have an associated graphical user interface (GUI) to pre- and
post - process model results, but require purchasing software, which can limit the use by other
stakeholders. On the other hand, EFDC does not have an associated GUI, but can be modified to
accommodate other GUI software. EFDC also has the advantage of using one model for
hydrodynamics and water quality compared to two separate models. In addition, EFDC has the
advantage of having the source code available for the public, making it easier for the
development of the Newport Bay.
18
Watershed
Mathematical
Numerical
Water quality
User-
Prior
Model
Model
Formulation
Methods
Applications
Friendly
Applications
Interfacing
EFDC
+
+
+
+
+
+ (TMDL use
in So. Cal)
RMA10 /11
+
+
+
+
_
+ (Use in
UNB)
CH3D and
CE -QUAL-
-
-
+
-
-
-
ICM
+ indicates a model better meets the evaluation criteria.
There are no compelling reasons to select RMAI0/RMAl l over EFDC or vice versa on the basis
of the mathematical formulation, numerical methods, or water quality applications. However,
there are some other advantages and disadvantages of each model. RMA10 and RMAI I have
the advantage of being successfully applied in UNB for hydrodynamics and sediment transport.
However, EFDC is becoming popular for TMDL applications, particularly in Southern
California. RMA10 and RMAI l have an associated graphical user interface (GUI) to pre- and
post - process model results, but require purchasing software, which can limit the use by other
stakeholders. On the other hand, EFDC does not have an associated GUI, but can be modified to
accommodate other GUI software. EFDC also has the advantage of using one model for
hydrodynamics and water quality compared to two separate models. In addition, EFDC has the
advantage of having the source code available for the public, making it easier for the
development of the Newport Bay.
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Harbor Area Management Plan
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
6.0 DATA REQUIREMENTS
Development of a numerical model grid for Newport Bay requires bathymetry data of the Bay
and coastline that includes at least one -feet accuracy within the intertidal portions of the Bay and
inflow (e.g., creeks and storm drains) characteristics such as locations, size, and drainage area.
Initial conditions of the model domain can include water depth, spatially- varying (horizontally
and vertically) salinity or temperature conditions.
Basic model inputs include time - varying water surface elevations (tide), volumetric flows,
salinity, and temperature at the ocean entrance and freshwater inflows. Time- and spatially -
varying wind and surface heat exchange (i.e., atmospheric thermodynamic conditions) may also
be needed.
For hydrodynamic model calibration, additional field data are required to compare with model -
predicted values. Calibration data can include time - varying water surface elevations at multiple
locations, time- and depth - varying velocities, temperature and salinities at multiple locations,.
Calibration data should cover concurrent periods of time and include varying hydrodynamic
conditions to capture seasonal variations and both dry and wet weather conditions.
Sediment transport modeling requires inputs for sediment loading associated with the inflows
and sediment properties within the bay. As part of the numerical model grid setup, the sediment
bed properties include spatially- varying bed thickness (total bed or individual bed layers for
vertically - varying bed properties), spatially- and vertically- varying bed bulk density, porosity,
and sediment fractions (e.g., cohesive and noncohesive). In addition, spatially - varying
(horizontally and vertically) initial sediment concentrations of each sediment class in the water
column are needed. Sediment input data includes sediment loading associated with each inflow
and sediment fractions at all boundaries (e.g., ocean and inflows). Additional sediment data for
each sediment class include critical shear stress for erosion, critical shear stress for deposition,
settling velocity and grain size.
For sediment transport model calibration, additional data are required for the water column and
sediment bed. Sediment calibration data should correspond to the hydrodynamic data (i.e.,
concurrent hydrodynamic and sediment data) and can include time- and spatially varying
sediment concentrations for each sediment class, bathymetry data, and depositional or dredge
volumes.
Similarly to sediment transport modeling, model calibration for other water quality constituents
requires defining pollutant properties and data for the water column and sediment bed. For
example, calibration for copper requires inputs of copper loadings associated with inflows,
spatially varying initial concentrations, and corresponding copper levels within the bay.
Simulation of a sediment - associated pollutant like copper also requires determination of the
partition coefficient for simulating dissolved and particulate fractions. The partition coefficient
varies for each pollutant and can vary with other factors like salinity. Likewise, spatially - varying
initial concentrations of both dissolved and particulate fractions within the sediment bed are also
necessary.
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Harbor Area Management Plan
Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Numerical
Modeling Requirements Technical Report June 2009
7.0 REFERENCES
City of Newport Beach. 2002. "Circulation Improvement Study for Newport Dunes Lagoon and
Newport Island Channels in Newport Bay." Prepared for City of Newport Beach. Prepared by
Everest International Consultants, Inc. October 2002.
City of Newport Beach. 2003. "Circulation Improvement Study for Newport Island Channels in
Newport Bay." Prepared for City of Newport Beach. Prepared by Everest International
Consultants, Inc. March 2003.
City of Newport Beach. 2004. "City of Newport Beach Storm Drain Diversion Study."
Prepared for City of Newport Beach. Prepared by Everest International Consultants, Inc. in
association with Geomatrix Consultants, Inc. November 2004.
City of Newport Beach. 2005. "Newport Bay Model." Prepared for City of Newport Beach.
Prepared by Everest International Consultants, Inc. June 2005.
SWRCB. 2003. "Newport Bay Toxics Modeling." Prepared for California State Water
Resources Control Board. Prepared by Resource Management Associates, Inc. January 2003.
USACE. 1993. "Reconnaissance Report Upper Newport Bay Orange County, California:
Numerical Modeling of Hydrodynamics and Transport Upper Newport Bay, California." U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers, Los Angeles District. February 1993.
USACE. 1997. "Upper Newport Bay Numerical Model Development Final Model and GUI
Development and Implementation Report." Prepared for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Los
Angeles District. Prepared by Resource Management Associates, Inc. October 1997.
USACE. 1998. "Upper Newport Bay Numerical Model Development Baseline Conditions
Analysis." Prepared for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Los Angeles District. Prepared by
Resource Management Associates, Inc. July 1998.
USACE. 1999. "Upper Newport Bay Alternative Analysis." Prepared for U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers, Los Angeles District. Prepared by Resource Management Associates, Inc.
November 1999.
USACE. 2000. "Upper Newport Bay Ecosystem Restoration Feasibility Study Environmental
Impact Statement / Report." U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Los Angeles District, County of
Orange Public Facilities & Resources Department, State of California, and City of Newport
Beach. September 2000.
20