Description
The Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) is seeking applications for a research project to improve water quality conditions in Willow Creek Reservoir, Oregon. The project aims to advance the scientific understanding of reservoir ecology through empirical data acquisition, hydrodynamic modeling, mitigation strategy evaluation, and knowledge dissemination. The research will focus on addressing water quality concerns such as dense cyanobacteria blooms, low dissolved oxygen concentrations, and high nutrient concentrations. The project is expected to provide public benefits, including enhanced water quality, public recreation opportunities, and natural resource benefits.
• The project will involve systematic environmental monitoring and experimental observation, including the monthly collection of water samples and recording of in-situ physicochemical measurements.
• A comprehensive whole-lake hydrodynamic model will be developed to synthesize complex environmental data, simulate various "what-if" scenarios, and forecast the reservoir's future water quality trajectory.
• The project will evaluate the effectiveness of current systems and model alternative options, including the installed aeration system and water quality outlet operations.
• The research results will be disseminated through public and technical forums to ensure that data serves the community as a transparent resource.