Port Stephens flood tide Delta: Shoreline management issues
- Dr. Dong Jeng
- Dr. A. Vila Concejo (USYD)-APDI
- Professor A. D. Short (USYD)
- Dr. M. G. Hughes (USYD)
- Dr. R. J. Ranasinghe (DNR, NSW Government)
Flood tide deltas are the most dynamic component of estuarine systems and result in unstable estuarine shorelines worldwide. We will investigate Port Stephens which has been experiencing ongoing shoreline erosion. In this project, we will investigate wave-tide processes and sediment transport paths within the delta-beach systems and use numerical models to describe the hydrodynamics, sediment transport and beach response over a range of wave, tide and sea level scenarios. We will examine the possible engineering solutions and add value to the existing coastal management strategic plan.
The aim of this project is to determine the interrelated morphodynamics of flood tide deltas and adjacent estuarine beaches. We will investigate these relationships using numerical models run for a range of different hydrodynamic and morphological scenarios. Long-term changes such as the system’s response to climate change and associated rises in sea level will be evaluated with these numerical models, following validation by field data collected during this study. The ability to model this complex morphodynamic system will result in an improved understanding of numerous similar systems on wave-dominated coastlines throughout the world. To achieve this aim, we will:
- determine the location, direction and rates of sediment transport;
- measure the waves and tidal currents that drive this transport;
- use this information to model the delta and shoreline so that we can test solutions to immediate problems; and
- apply the model to predict the impact of climate change: rising sea levels, increasing tidal prisms, and a changing wave climate.
This project is support by the following organisations
- Australian Research Council Linkage Grant (2006-2009),
- NSW Department of Natural Resources
- Great Lakes Council
- Port Stephens Council
- DHI Water & Environment Pty Ltd
- Jimmys Beach Association