The coastal hydrodynamics group consists of analytical, field, and numerical modeling expertise. Together, they attack engineering problems associated with increased development pressure on our nation's coastlines. These efforts include field investigations of nearshore sediment transport; the effects of both large and small coastal engineering structures; the effects of climate variability on nearshore processes; and the modeling of complex interactions of waves and currents in shallow water.
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Coastal erosion in response to rising water levels and severe storm wave activity is of major national concern. Understanding of the coastal hydrodynamic processes responsible for this rapid coastal change will allow the development of environmentally consistent national strategies. |
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Computer controlled, automated, underwater instrumentation allow detailed measurements even under the most severe storm wave conditions. This directional wave gauge is being placed in 10 m water depth off Big Sable Point in Lake Michigan. |
A vast array of instrumentation, three well-equipped survey vessels, a state-of-the-art underwater remote-operated vehicle, and extensive laboratory and computational facilities support these activities. In addition, cooperative research programs also exist with both the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) of NOAA and the Environmental Research Institute of Michigan (ERIM), both located in Ann Arbor.
FACULTY: Lyzenga, G. Meadows, L. Meadows, Perlin