Hydrodynamic Modeling In Lake Champlain: Current Resources, Major Gaps

In Lake Champlain, hydrodynamic models have been developed and utilized for a variety of purposes. This document summarizes early modeling efforts focused on Lake Champlain and describes five hydrodynamic models used to describe the hydrodynamics of the lake. Hydrodynamic models have improved our understanding of lake dynamics; however, further research and modeling efforts are needed both to increase the accuracy of the models and to serve natural resource mangers’ and policy- makers' science-based information needs. Modelers indicate that the following critical gaps in knowledge and information in the Lake Champlain basin must be addressed: Observations of incoming solar radiation; Additional wind measurement sites over and within Lake Champlain; Siting of meteorological stationsInclusion of river temperature measurements at all gauging stations; Improved lake bottom bathymetry data, such as in-lake LiDAR; and Better characterization of the river and Champlain Canal discharge into the South Lake. Grant no. NA18OAR4170099