In a first of its kind coupling of a suite of models, a USGS Fort Collins Science Center team has brought together a geographic information system (GIS) with a two-dimensional hydraulics model (River 2-D), a young-of-year salmonid production/simulation model (SALMOD), and physical habitat characterization (e.g., PHABSIM). This new application, Smart River GIS, provides a unique way to examine and understand river systems for management purposes. Developed by FORT scientists Leanne Hanson, Sam Williamson, and Terry Waddle and ASRC Management Services contractors Colin Talbert and John Heasley, this prototype model is based on information collected on a short section of the South Platte River in Colorado. Future funding will further model development by applying Smart River GIS to more complex river systems and validating it with existing datasets.
For more information contact: Leanne Hanson
Smart River GIS for Improved Decision Making