Hydrodynamic Modeling to Assess Effectiveness of Shoreline Restoration in Sandusky Bay.

Session: 51. - Coastal Resilience

Dan Rucinski, LimnoTech, [email protected]
Ed Verhamme, LimnoTech, [email protected]
Pengfei Xue, Michigan Tech, [email protected]
Todd Redder, LimnoTech, [email protected]

Abstract

As part of the ODNR and Ohio EPA funded Sandusky Initiative, multiple in-water habitat restoration projects that reuse material dredged from the Sandusky Harbor shipping channels are being proposed.  The projects are intended to restore coastal wetlands, improve nearshore water quality by reducing nutrient and suspended sediment loads, and enhance wildlife, waterfowl and fisheries habitat in Sandusky Bay.  We have developed a hydrodynamic model, using the FVCOM framework, to simulate high resolution transport and wave energy fields in order to assess alternative design projects.  The design projects include altering flow paths near restricted hydrologic connections and creation of new coastal wetlands around the shoreline and causeways in the bay.  The model was used to determine the resiliency of proposed designs, as well as assess how the overall transport pathways could be impacted within the bay.  Model results are presented for multiple design configurations.

1. Keyword
coastal wetlands

2. Keyword
shore protection

3. Keyword
hydrodynamic model