Two-dimensional hydrodynamic modeling of a reach of the Mississippi River in Pool 19

A depth-integrated finite-element model (RMA-2V) was applied on a section of the Upper Mississippi River to study the hydraulic characteristics of the floodplain-river system. The area that has been modeled is called "Montrose Flats." Aquatic vegetation is abundant at this location, and the flow structure needs to be evaluated in order to study the nutrient transport conditions within this area. The present study focused on a large oval eddy that was observed to form in this area near the downstream end of the Devil's Creek delta. Causative factors for this eddy were examined by using this numerical model. Results indicate that the eddy can be simulated by this model and that numerical study is a feasible way to examine the mechanisms [...]