Home Page
Colorado River Flow, Stage and Sediment Model (CRFSS)
for the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon
Prepared for
Grand Canyon Research and Monitoring Center
by
Ecometric Research Inc.
Links
Grand Canyon Research and Monitoring Center
Model Overview
There is a substantial history of physical science research and modeling on the Colorado River in Grand Canyon. This has led to development of a number of predictive numerical models that are of interest to managers, scientists, and boaters. The intent of the Colorado River Flow, Stage, and Sediment Model (CRFSS) is to combine three of these models into a single, easy-to-use application.
UNSTEADY A reach-averaged one-dimensional model of diurnal discharge wave propagation. The model was developed by S.M. Wiele at the US Geological Survey (USGS) to predict the progression and evolution of discharge waves released from Glen Canyon Dam (Wiele and Smith, 1996). A primary purpose of the model is the calculation of hydrographs at points along the river in support of field studies. The model also predicts reach-averaged water velocity that can be used to estimate travel time and distance.
STARS A one-dimensional, steady state model designed to calculate water surface profiles (river stage) and simulate streambed response to varying water and sediment discharges (Randle and Pemberton 1987). The model was developed by the Bureau of Reclamation and applied to the Colorado River in Grand Canyon by T. Randle and E. Pemberton. While STARS simulates both stage and sediment movement, only the stage component of the model has been integrated within this application.
Paria and LCR Sediment Input Models Not implemented at this time.
