Satellite observation and model simulation of water turbidity in the Chesapeake Bay

Turbidity is one of the important factors that can be used for measuring water quality in the Chesapeake Bay. The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS)-Aqua derived diffuse attenuation coefficient at the wavelength 490 nm (Kd(490)) can be used to relate the Chesapeake Bay water turbidity. In this presentation, we use the recently developed shortwave infrared (SWIR)-based atmospheric correction algorithm for deriving MODIS-Aqua ocean color products in the Chesapeake Bay. It has been demonstrated that the SWIR-based data processing produces better quality ocean color products over the turbid coastal waters. We use the Kd(490) data derived from MODIS-Aqua with SWIR-based algorithm to study the turbidity in the Chesapeake Bay. Spatial distribution and seasonal variations of turbidity are analyzed. In addition, simulations from the Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS) coupled with a sediment model have been carried out to investigate the mechanisms of sediment transport, deposition, and resuspension processes in the Chesapeake Bay. Factors that contribute to the turbidity variations, such as wind, current, tide, and sediment settling velocity are simulated in the model. The satellite observations combined with the model simulations are used to study and understand the turbidity variation and its impact on the water quality in the Chesapeake Bay.

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