Simulating particle dispersion in a tidal flat and channel system: Skagit Bay, WA (USA)

In order to gain a better quantitative understanding of factors controlling mixing rates in a tidal flat environment, a Lagrangian particle tracking approach was employed. The Delft modeling system was applied to an idealized tidal channel/flat system and Skagit Bay, WA (USA) (48 19N, 122 24W) for the purpose of computing the flow and particle trajectories under a range of environmental conditions. Time varied particle distribution statistics were examined for each condition, and the ensemble particle tracks were analyzed and compared with field deployed drogues. Results of the simulations are compared with field- deployed drogues dropped in at various time intervals and locations.