Two-dimensional surface river flow patterns measured with paired RiverSondes

By: , and 

Links

Abstract

Two RiverSondes were operated simultaneously in close proximity in order to provide a two-dimensional map of river surface velocity. The initial test was carried out at Threemile Slough in central California. The two radars were installed about 135 m apart on the same bank of the channel. Each radar used a 3-yagi antenna array and determined signal directions using direction finding. The slough is approximately 200 m wide, and each radar processed data out to about 300 m, with a range resolution of 15 m and an angular resolution of 1 degree. Overlapping radial vector data from the two radars were combined to produce total current vectors at a grid spacing of 10 m, with updates every 5 minutes. The river flow in the region, which has a maximum velocity of about 0.8 m/s, is tidally driven with flow reversals every 6 hours, and complex flow patterns were seen during flow reversal. The system performed well with minimal mutual interference. The ability to provide continuous, non-contact two-dimensional river surface flow measurements will be useful in several unique settings, such as studies of flow at river junctions where impacts to juvenile fish migration are significant. Additional field experiments are planned this year on the Sacramento River. 

Publication type Conference Paper
Publication Subtype Conference Paper
Title Two-dimensional surface river flow patterns measured with paired RiverSondes
ISBN 1424412129; 9781424412129
DOI 10.1109/IGARSS.2007.4423349
Year Published 2007
Language English
Description 4 p.
Larger Work Type Book
Larger Work Subtype Conference publication
Larger Work Title International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium (IGARSS)
First page 2491
Last page 2494
Conference Title 2007 IEEE International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium, IGARSS 2007
Conference Location Barcelona
Conference Date June 23-28,2007
Country United States
State California
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details