A HEC-6T numerical model of the entire Lower Mississippi River between the end of Southwest Pass and the confluence of the Ohio River was developed. The model, which included over 1000 river miles, was calibrated to 1991-2002 measured data. The purpose of the numerical sedimentation model was to provide a tool to evaluate the long-term and system-wide effects of specific Mississippi River and Tributaries Project features. Model applications related to the effects of sediment diversions and the effects of dredging in the New Orleans District were demonstrated. The model demonstrated the effects of new constrictive works on the longterm and short-term river morphology. The model was used to test the effects of changes in upstream sediment inflow. The model's ability to assess the effects of natural geomorphic changes, such as erosion of hard points, was demonstrated. Future application of this model to specific project sites should include the addition of more detailed geometry in the area of interest. DISCLAIMER: The contents of this report are not to be used for advertising, publication, or promotional purposes. Citation of trade names does not constitute an official endorsement or approval of the use of such commercial products. All product names and trademarks cited are the property of their respective owners. The findings of this report are not to be construed as an official Department of the Army position unless so designated by other authorized documents.
The Mississippi River is heavily influenced by structural and geologic controls involving regional uplifts, faults, clay plugs, outcrops of Tertiary clay, and Pleistocene gravel in its bed and tributaries. Degradation is continuing to migrate upstream on the Lower Mississippi River (LMR) and has presently moved as far upstream as the Hickman, KY, area. Left unchecked, this degradation could continue to advance on the LMR and ultimately migrate upstream into the Ohio and Middle Mississippi River systems. This degradation would not only adversely affect the stability and environmental features in the main stem of the river but also introduce headcutting into the many tributaries that enter the river in this degradational zone. Detailed studies of the exact role of these features, particularly with respect to retarding or halting long-term degradational processes along the river, have not received much attention. In this study, potential areas where geologic outcrops may influence river morphology are identified, and examples are provided that support the concept that geologic outcrops may be extremely important features that serve as temporary or permanent grade control along the river. DISCLAIMER: The contents of this report are not to be used for advertising, publication, or promotional purposes. Citation of trade names does not constitute an official endorsement or approval of the use of such commercial products. All product names and trademarks cited are the property of their respective owners. The findings of this report are not to be construed as an official Department of the Army position unless so designated by other authorized documents.
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