Author(s): Xin Yan, Zhaohua Sun, Junqiang Xia

Linked Author(s): Xin Yan

Keywords: Saltwater intrusion, river discharge, statistical analysis, Three Gorges Project

Abstract: In recent years, saltwater intrusion is becoming a serious problem in Yangtze River Estuary. Among the impact factors, riverine discharge process into the sea determines the duration and intensity of saltwater intrusion. The Three Gorges Project (TGP) controls half of the total runoff of the Yangtze River Basin. Since the operation of the TGP, it has drawn much attention if the regulation of discharge changes the regime of saltwater intrusion in the Yangtze River Estuary. Based on the measurements pre- and post- the dam, the impacts of the TGP on saltwater intrusion have been investigated quantitatively, and the results indicate that: (1) owing to the discharge increment caused by the TGP operation in drought season since 2003, on mean annual scale, extreme situation of saltwater intrusion is weakened, and the peak of chlorinity which often occurs in February decreases by 28%; (2) the annual mean frequency of saltwater intrusion in September and October increases 0. 8 and 1. 5 respectively; (3) the critical discharge of restraining severe saltwater intrusion at Datong is 12000 m3/s, and the released discharge of TGP should be regulated reasonably to avoid severe saltwater

DOI:

Year: 2017