Observing, Monitoring and Evaluating the Effects of Discharge Plumes in Coastal Regions

Our ability to predict, observe, and monitor the performance of ocean outfall discharges is rapidly transforming through advances in numerical modeling, remote sensing and underwater vehicle technology. The rapid implementation of sensor and AUV technology has transformed our ability to monitor effluent plumes from coastal discharges of both brine and wastewater. Advances in remote sensing technology provide new views of anthropogenic discharges into coastal seas and oceans. Improved spatial and temporal resolution of coastal models provides more comprehensive dispersion estimates from these discharges. The combined capabilities now provide more detailed observations of the oceanographic processes affecting the dispersion of these discharges and produce statistical maps of the dispersion of properties related to the effluents. These results will contribute to management and design of ocean outfalls and enable better interpretation of discharge effects on coastal ocean ecosystems.