Harbor Circulation Modeling and Design

In-depth analyses using computer and physical modeling are used to improve and understand harbor interaction with waves and sediment flow within the the coastal region.

Recent studies at Saugatuck, MI, Michigan City, IN and St. Joseph, MI utilized a computer model called Hydrosed. This model is a 2-D hydrodynamic model comprised of three components:

1. Spectral Wave Transformation Model
2. Hydrodynamic Model
3. Sediment Transport Model

All these modules comprise a state-of-the-art numerical model used to determine sediment transport pathways around harbor structures. Figure 1 shows sediment transport driven by a Northwestern storm at Saugatuck Harbor, MI.