Central Basin Sedimentation Analysis, San Francisco, CA

One of the ongoing challenges in the field of numerical sediment transport modeling is to accurately quantify sedimentation rates and patterns for cohesive sediments. The Port of San Francisco (POSF) desired to evaluate impacts of various proposed activities within the Central Basin, which is subject to sedimentation by fine sediments. One primary goal of the project was to evaluate potential increases in sedimentation following various pier removal, dredging, and park construction activities. The impacts on sedimentation rates of three proposed developments in the Central Basin were analyzed with the calibrated sediment transport model: removal of a derelict wharf (Wharf 8) that flanks the Central Basin, construction of a recreational beach (Crane Cove Park) on the western edge of the basin, and deepening of specific dredge units within the Central Basin. It was determined that although removal of Wharf 8 and the construction of Crane Cove Park resulted in minimal changes to the sedimentation rate, dredging of specific dredge units resulted in an expected increase in sedimentation rates as well as an overall shift in sedimentation patterns.