Numerical Surface Water Modeling

Numerical surface water modeling helps us understand complex processes in rivers, lakes, estuaries, and coastal waters. Our engineers, scientists, and modelers use advanced numerical models to evaluate flow, water quality, sediment, contaminants, and ecological processes. As a result, clients can better understand how natural changes and human activities may affect aquatic systems over time.

Our team has extensive experience with one-, two-, and three-dimensional surface water modeling. Applications include flood risk, sea level rise, navigation, water quality, salinity, sediment transport, and contaminant fate and transport.

In addition, we develop integrated modeling frameworks that connect watershed runoff, hydrodynamics, water quality, sediment processes, and ecological responses. These frameworks provide a more complete understanding of complex aquatic environments.

Our numerical surface water modeling capabilities incorporate established platforms such as EFDC, AdH, Delft3D, HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, HSPF, CASM, and other specialized tools. We select modeling tools based on the needs and complexity of each project. For example, models can be used to evaluate existing conditions, investigate system responses, compare alternatives, and assess potential future impacts.

Numerical modeling is particularly valuable when field observations alone cannot fully explain how an aquatic system responds to changing conditions. By combining data with appropriate analytical and computational tools, our team can examine interactions among flow, sediment, water quality, contaminants, and ecological processes.

Ultimately, our goal is to translate complex modeling results into useful information. These insights support planning, engineering, environmental management, and ecosystem restoration. Whether evaluating flood risk, navigation conditions, water quality, sediment behavior, or ecological response, we help clients understand their systems and make informed decisions.