Corpus Christi Inner Harbor shoaling investigation

Abstract : A combination of numerical models was used to test alternatives for shoaling prevention in Corpus Christi Harbor, Texas. The vertically averaged model system, TABS-2, was used to simulate contributions of sediments by bay waters to the sediment load. The laterally averaged estuarine model, LAEMSED, was used to simulate density currents in the channel and sedimentation that occurs at the harbor entrance. Applications of the models testing advance maintenance, removal of industrial discharges and withdrawals, advance maintenance in conjunction with a sill, and movement of the disposal areas showed a 20 percent decrease in shoaling as a result of industrial activity removal, a 75 percent decrease in sediments entering the bay channel due to disposal area relocation, and practically no effect on shoaling rates resulting from advance maintenance. Appendix A presents the results of a reconnaissance survey on shoaling conditions in Corpus Christi Harbor. Appendix B describes the TABS-2 numerical modeling system, and Appendix C describes the theoretical aspects of LAEMSED.