Author(s): M. Miloshis; E. M. Valentine
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Tropical River; Land use change; 2-D finite element model; Sediment transport
Abstract: The Daly River is an important perennial river of the tropical Top End, Northern Territory. Rainfall in the Top End appears to have been greater during the last 40 years than the 100 year long term mean and the resultant increase in overbank flows may be the cause of observed erosion of river banks and deep pool infilling, which threatens fish habitat. A finite element hydrodynamic and sediment transport model of a 10km long reach of river channel and floodplain has been created to investigate the likely cause of channel instability. Morphological changes within the channel during overbank flows are extremely varied but do indicate distinct infilling of pool sections and erosion of river banks. Calibration and verification of the model requires data collection specific to this modelling application. These data are outlined and their relative importance discussed. Applying these outputs to whole of catchment scale sediment interactions will provide a model of fluvial responses to land use and potential climate change.
Year: 2011