Simulation of Suspended Sediment in Colusa Basin Drain

Abstract

Suspended sediment transport is simulated in the lower reaches of the Colusa Basin Drain. A one‐dimensional dynamic mathematical and computer model is formulated to simulate suspended mineral sediment, suspended organic matter, and suspended algae. This computer model is based on the mass balance equation including advection transport, diffusion transport, deposition and erosion, chemical and biological transformations, and inflow of point and nonpoint sources. The mathematical solution is obtained by a finite difference implicit method. The model is calibrated and confirmed with the data collected from the Colusa Basin Drain. The simulated results are in good agreement with measured values.