Modeling the environment

A computer model is a representation of some part of the environment that helps us understand and predict potential changes. Weather forecasting, for example, relies on computer models.

We develop these mathematical tools to represent water systems, like a river or Puget Sound. They help us understand what factors contribute to problems in these waters and plan a course of action to manage the relevant factors.

Tools & resources for modeling

We use several tools, some developed by us and some developed by others. Each tool needs to be customized for a certain body of water. Many of these tools are used to identify sources of pollution in water quality improvement plans, or Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) studies. Several of our tools are used all over the world.

Models and tools for water quality improvement links to many tools used in modeling TMDL water-cleanup plans. Also, you can download the models.

Modeling projects and tools

Computer models applied to Puget Sound help us understand if a water cleanup plan is needed. These tools allow us to predict what Puget Sound might look like without the effects of different factors.

Salish Sea model describes a tool for studying dissolved oxygen levels in Puget Sound and the Salish Sea.
Focus on: Water Quality Modeling in Puget Sound is a publication that describes the models being used in Puget Sound.
Salish Sea model publications include reports about modeling.

Models and tools for water quality improvement links to freshwater models.
Using Models to Compare and Prioritize Actions in Puget Sound: Who’s Modeling What and Why? is a scientific poster presented at the Puget Sound Georgia Basin Ecosystem Conference in June 2009.
Simulation of annual biogeochemical cycles of nutrient balance, phytoplankton bloom(s), and DO in Puget Sound using an unstructured grid model is an article from the journal Ocean Dynamics (2012) co-published with us.
Calibration of a three-dimensional model of water quality in South Puget Sound is a scientific poster presented at the 2011 Salish Sea Conference in British Columbia, Canada that describes model calibration.
Tidally averaged circulation in Puget Sound sub-basins: Comparison of historical data, analytical model, and numerical model is an article from the journal Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science from July 2011, co-published by us.
Seasonal Variations in Flushing Time for Quartermaster Harbor, an Enclosed Puget Sound Estuary is a scientific poster presented at the Salish Sea Ecosystem Conference in October 2011.

Spreadsheet Models for Determining the Influence of Land Applications of Fertilizer on Underlying Groundwater Nitrate Concentrations can be used to quantitatively predict the impact of residual or excess farm-field soil nitrate or mass balance residual on the concentration of nitrate in underlying shallow groundwater. The spreadsheet itself is included as an appendix in the publication summary webpage for this report.

Contact information

Cristiana Figueroa-Kaminsky
Modeling & TMDL Manager
c.figueroa-kaminsky@ecy.wa.gov
360-764-9936

Were you able to find what you were looking for today?*:	Yes No Not sure
What were you trying to find?*:
Please describe your experience. What was challenging? What was helpful? *:	Please include details that will help us address any issues you're reporting. NOTE: There is a 1,500 character limit (including spaces) on this form field.
Was the search tool helpful to you? *:	Yes No I didn't use Search.
How can we improve our website?:	Optional. If you have suggestions, we'd like to hear them! NOTE: There is a 1,500 character limit (including spaces) on this form field.
Your name:	Please include contact information if you'd like a reply.
Email:	If you’d like a reply, please provide an email address.
Phone number:	( ) - Second three digits Last four digits If you’d like us to call you, please provide a phone number.
Which best describes your role in visiting our site today?*:	Business / Consultant / Contractor Government - Local Government - State Government - Federal Government - Tribal Scientist / Researcher Non-profit Washington resident / Public Educator Student Job seeker Ecology employee
PleaseLeaveBlank:	Are you a robot? If not, please do not enter anything in this field.
	ignore
	ignore