LARHYSS Journal
Volume 20, Numéro 1, Pages 145-163
2023-03-10

Density Current Simulation Using Ce-qual-w2 Model In A Deep Subtropical Reservoir Under Various Stratification Conditions

Authors : Chow Ming Fai . Teo Fang Yenn .

Abstract

Computer models are broadly used to simulate the hydrodynamic characteristics and water quality patterns under various conditions in reservoirs. The accuracy and reliability of model simulations often depend on the input parameter estimation and the availability of observed data. In this study, the two-dimensional hydrodynamic and water quality CE-QUAL-W2 (W2) model was used to simulate the water quality and density current patterns in the Fei-Tsui Reservoir in Taiwan. The model was calibrated and validated with a 3-year dataset of reservoir water level and water quality data at different depths of the reservoir. Plots and statistical measures between simulated versus observed results demonstrated that the W2 model can accurately simulate both spatial and temporal profiles of water quality parameters in a deep subtropical reservoir. The water quality coefficient values obtained from the model calibration and verification in this study are relatively smaller than the values reported for similar reservoirs. The W2 model calibrated using the high-frequency dataset performs better in the water quality simulation. The occurrence of different types of density currents suggested that the water temperature distribution in the water column played an important role in the pattern of turbid runoff. The W2 model is recommended to be further used to evaluate future management strategies related to eutrophication control.

Keywords

Hydrodynamic model ; Density current ; Eutrophication ; Reservoir ; Subtropical