Geomorphological modeling of tidal inlets for sustainable deltaic lagoon
management: A case study in the Po River Delta, Italy
Abstract
River deltas and enclosed lagoons represent a zone where fluvial and
littoral processes interacts through a redistribution, erosion, and
deposition of sediment, with a huge impact on coastal management and
engineering. The focus of the study is to understand the correct balance
between strategies to maintain the navigational efficiency of tidal
inlets and the respect of the ecological and economical function in
coastal lagoons. We applied an integrated modeling system which will
link multiple hydrodynamic and morphodynamic models to understand how
coastal processes and the associated sediment transport can influence
the functioning of the southern inlet of the Barbamarco lagoon in the Po
River Delta, Italy. Furthermore, our study provides engineering
solutions aimed at the inlet functioning efficiency with a proposal for
the monitoring plan. Our results highlight the importance of the
seasonal effects of wave climate on the littoral sediment transport.
Model outcomes show that the dredging volume is approximately 15,000
cubic meter/year for the southern inlet that might vary with wave
climate. However, shaping a wider tidal channel seaward will reduce the
dredging activities with a longer interval than the actual sediment
removal. A design of a deeper and wider channel will deflect the along
shore current seaward with a sediment bypass of the inlet. Therefore,
the sediment will reach the erosional side of the inlet enhancing the
redistribution of the sediment which might reduce the over-wash during
storms and high-water levels. Our results display the ephemeral
equilibrium of tidal inlets and coastal lagoons in deltaic systems
impacted by large riverine sediment delivery. Shore management scenario
and decision relies on hydro-morphodyanmic numerical model to predict
the best practice for coastal sustainability.