Containment Dispersion and Hydrodynamic Mixing in Aquatic Systems

The Trinity Water & Ecology Environmental Services team provides expert characterization of the dispersion and mixing of thermal and chemical discharges to aquatic systems. We have the expertise to complete field-based (e.g., dye tracing) and computer-based (e.g., CORMIX™ and Visual Plumes modelling) evaluations of mixing in aquatic systems. Our numerical models incorporate field-collected physical and chemical data (i.e., bathymetry, currents, circulation, and thermal and chemical stratification), where appropriate, to calibrate the model and verify simulation results.

Assessment of Contaminant Dispersion in Aquatic Environments Services

Trinity Consultants Water and Ecology's Ecofish and Minnow teams are recognized leaders in aquatic systems and can help you today.

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We integrate field and modeling components of studies on streams, rivers, reservoirs, lakes, and coastal waters to provide clients with better understanding of the potential effects of effluent discharge and the behavior of effluent plumes in various surface water receivers. These studies are used to evaluate projects during various stages from early development through to post-closure. For example, in the mining sector, hydrodynamic modelling can be applied to simulate the mixing regime in pit lakes and characterize and understand the short- and long-term implications of pit lake water quality during post-closure.

Our team can develop dynamic 1-, 2-, and 3-dimensional water balance/quality models and contaminant transport evaluations using GoldSimTM simulation software. These models are highly flexible and can incorporate a framework of numerous inputs and scenarios to predict water quality at key locations over time. With this tool, we can evaluate the relative importance of various source terms, complete deterministic or probabilistic water quality predictions at points of interest, and assist with making decisions regarding water management, waste management, and closure planning.

We have experience in assimilative capacity studies and determination of site-specific Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDL) that are required to support effluent discharge permitting and regulatory compliance. Similarly, we apply modelling to evaluate sediment dynamics in aquatic systems (sedimentation, transport, and erosion). With a state-of-the-art sediment dispersion model and site-specific hydrodynamic data, we can analyze the potential zone of influence of a release. Physical and chemical modelling results can be used in combination with field evaluations of aquatic habitat and biota (e.g., periphyton, invertebrate, fish communities) to assess the potential for a discharge or release to have effects on aquatic life, including magnitude, duration, frequency, and spatial extent of potential effects.

Our modeling capabilities include:

Numerical modeling of effluent chemistry and surface water receiver quality
Dispersion modeling of chemical and thermal effluent plumes
Hydrodynamic modeling of mixing regimes and pit lakes
Assimilative capacity studies and effluent discharge permitting
Sediment dynamics (sedimentation, transport, erosion)
Design and implementation of supporting field investigations including limnology, hydrodynamics, water quality, and bathymetric surveys