Light penetration analysis and rooted plant / epiphyte (RPEM) modeling for submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) habitat.
Submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) provides shelter, food, and clean water for fish, birds, and other wildlife — but its survival depends on getting enough light. Turbidity from runoff, dredging, or algal growth can push SAV communities past the point of recovery.
EEMS offers dedicated tools for light penetration analysis, including bottom irradiance calculations and spatial habitat statistics. EFDC+‘s rooted plant and epiphyte sub-model (RPEM) simulates SAV growth and decline along with the nutrient and sediment interactions that drive it — giving a complete picture of what affects SAV health and how it responds to management.
EEMS was used to model rooted aquatic plants and epiphytes in the Little Bow River, covering the main stem, Twin Valley Reservoir, and Mosquito Creek. The model was calibrated for water quality including dissolved oxygen and nutrients, and a sensitivity analysis evaluated how plants respond under different loading scenarios.
DSI developed a hydrodynamic and water quality model of the Oldman River for AESRI, covering temperature, oxygen, organic carbon, phosphorus, nitrogen, and algae. A sensitivity study of the plant and epiphyte module assessed how aquatic vegetation responds to changes in contaminant loading and management options.
