Evaluation of Circulation in Estuaries

Several approaches describing density-induced circulation patterns in partially stratified estuaries have been developed. Published techniques developed by several investigators and recently established methods are used in this paper to convert Hudson River tidal velocities and salinity observations to density-induced flow rates. Generally, the two-layer stratified flow system approach exhibits several favorable characteristics such as relatively more stable and predictable distribution, greater independence of temporary meteorological and local eddy conditions, simplicity, ease, and availability of more precise detection instruments. Density-induced flow values obtained using the two-layer flow method are more realistic than their salt budget counterparts and are somewhat higher than those derived from tidal velocity observations.