Projects & Programs
Three-Dimensional Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Modeling of the Lower Snake River and McNary Pool
A three-dimensional hydrodynamic and water quality model (Environmental Fluid Dynamics Code - EFDC) is being applied by PNNL to relate physical environment conditions to the migration behavior of adult salmon and steelhead. The model extends from the confluence of the Clearwater and Snake rivers to McNary Dam on the Columbia River. In this region, each reservoir is simulated individually. The EFDC model is being used to estimate water velocities and temperature. Simulated variables are being combined with radio telemetry fish tracking data in a geographic information system system. The model will also be used to simulate coldwater releases from Dworshak Dam and the resulting downstream temperature in the Clearwater and Snake rivers. In addition, an upstream adult migrant version of the PNNL Fish Individual Numerical Simulator (FINS) model will be developed and parameterized using the tracking data.