CS30C - Concurrent Session 30C: Effective Communication of Your Computer Modeling Efforts - Hydrology and Hydraulics

This presentation will roll out results from a yearlong effort by the Dam Safety Toolbox Model Communication Study group to develop guidance for communication of computer modeling efforts to dam owners and regulators specific to hydrology and hydraulics (H&H).

Phase I of the project focuses on information that should be determined and communicated in advance. Phase II of the project focuses on effective communication of modeling results. The guidance will be presented in a series of “fact sheets” available on the Dam Safety Toolbox.

The first portion of this presentation will focus on Phase I. Phase I topics include:
• Model purpose (detailed) and justification.
• General assumptions and modeling approach (e.g., software selection, parameter estimation, data sources, etc.)
• Rainfall source, events modeled, infiltration loss estimation method, runoff convolution method, channel routing method, sub-basin delineation criteria.
• Validation and/or calibration approach (e.g., historical events, previous modeling efforts, sensitivity analyses, etc.)
• Regional dataset comparison (envelope curves which may include paleoflood data points), Reservoir response to historic floods, Pool of record.
• Anticipated level of effort and schedule.
• Possible outcomes / expected outcomes.

The second part of this presentation will focus on Phase II. Phase II will be completed in August 2024 and draft results will be provided to the Dam Safety Community for feedback during this presentation.

The last part of the presentation will be a H&H focused, structured question and answer session that will be used to refine Phase II fact sheets.