Galveston Bay 3-D model study, channel deepening, circulation and salinity results

Abstract

The effects of deepening the Houston Ship Channel through the Galveston Bay estuary are predicted using the 3-D finite element numerical model RMA10-WES. The primary concern is the effect of any circulation and salinity shifts accompanying deepening upon oyster production in the bay. The channel itself has a project depth of 40 ft mean low water (mlw) and is deepened in two phases to 45 and 50 ft mlw. The model simulations are generally 1 year long and are made for predicted low, medium and high freshwater inflow. The model results demonstrate the increase in salinity intrusion along the deepened channel and the resulting changes in bay circulation