Sediment transport modeling in the Sinú river Delta, Colombia

Abstract

Variations in suspended sediment transport rates can cause significant impacts in deltas and estuaries, as river sediments play a fundamental role in the stability of these coastal ecosystems. This work presents the application of a 3D numerical model to simulate sediment transport in the Sinú River Delta, Colombia, and its impact on the adjacent coastal zone, where a significant amount of suspended sediment is transported to the Caribbean Sea. The EFDC Explorer modeling system was implemented, which solves the equations of movement and transport, specifically to determine the dynamics and spatiotemporal distribution of suspended sediments and evaluate the vulnerability of the estuarine zone to hydrodynamic variations and sediment transport. The model was configured with field obtained data and with secondary information from national environmental agencies. The calibration was verified using the index of Agreement, achieving a good fit for the variables considered. The results showed particularities in the distribution and diffusion of sediments, such as the presence of preferential areas of accumulation and dispersion, demonstrating that the coastal zone is vulnerable to sedimentation.