Modeling the Evolution of the Wax Lake Delta in Atchafalaya Bay, Louisiana

In this study, a process-based, depth-averaged Delft3D hydrodynamic and morphologic model of the Wax Lake Delta in Atchafalaya Bay, Louisiana was developed to simulate a five year period of delta development. The purpose of this modeling effort was to test the ability of process-based modeling tools to successfully simulate typical delta-building processes and the resulting morphologic and stratigraphic characteristics of the delta. Recent developments in conceptual modeling of mouth bar formation and full delta development have confirmed the capability of process-based models to simulate the processes necessary for delta growth and the resulting long-term, geologic scale morphologic and stratigraphic features. In this attempt to model the actual development of a prototype delta using similar techniques to those employed in the conceptual delta models, the applicability of physics-based modeling to delta evolution simulation will be further validated.