Three-dimensional hydrodynamic modeling of Galveston Bay (impact on oysters)

The effects of the enlargement of the Houston Ship Channel through Galveston Bay USA have been evaluated through a series of models and methods. The final model will be linked to an oyster population dynamics model to determine the effect of channel enlargement on the oyster populations of Galveston Bay. The hydrodynamic and salinity regimes, that are the primary input for each subsequent model, are provided by a 3-dimensional finite element program. A description of this model, its verification and the evaluation of the channel enlargement will be presented. The changes in the flow and salinity field associated with the channel enlargement and the lessons learned for this application will be discussed