The Centre For Water Research

Models

Over the past decade CWR has developed a range of process-based models for simulation of the physical, chemical and biological dynamics within aquatic systems. In addition, CWR has developed a range of software for visualisation (Modeller) and real-time decision support (ARMS). These software products are now used across the globe in over 80 countries by scientists, regulatory agencies and environmental consultants.

Within these pages you will find practical and scientific information about the numerical models available at CWR, as well as information on our software distribution policy and access to freeware versions of the models. There is also a models forum that aims to foster a community of model users who can help each other and share experiences. You are urged to join the forum if you become a regular user of one of our models. The link to this forum is on the navigation bar to the right.

Hydrodynamic Models

Hydrodynamic models simulate the dynamics of salinity, temperature and velocities in lakes, estuaries and the coastal ocean. They simulate the mixing and transport of heat, sediment, pollutants and biological particles. Hydrodynamic models provide powerful predictive capability that allows the quantitative assessment of both short- and long-term management strategies and environmental changes.

CWR develops two main hydrodynamic codes: the 1D Dynamic Reservoir SImulation Model (DYRESM) and the 3D Estuary Lake and Coastal Ocean Model (ELCOM). ELCOM provides accurate spatial and temporal predictions over timescales of weeks to years. Longer-term (annual and decadal) predictions of the mixing and vertical transport in lakes and reservoirs can use the one-dimensional model DYRESM.

Water Quality Models

The water quality and ecological state of an aquatic system depend not only on the transport of sediment, solutes and biological particles but also on the subsequent growth and biogeochemical transformation of those agents. Over the past decade the Computational Aquatic Ecosystem DYnamics Model (CAEDYM) has been developed, and it may be coupled to 1, 2 or 3D hydrodynamic codes. At CWR we release CAEDYM coupled to both DYRESM (1D) and ELCOM (3D). The configuration and functionality of CAEDYM is the same independent of the driver. Modellers can use DYRESM-CAEDYM or ELCOM-CAEDYM to simulate the spatial and temporal variation in concentrations of algae, dissolved oxygen, nutrients and other biological and chemical variables.