The studies assessed the impacts using both numerical and physical modeling 

 techniques. Numerical models, using wave hindcasts developed at WES, were 

 used to predict the long-term response of the adjacent shoreline resulting 

 from construction of a jettied entrance. Numerical models were also used to 

 estimate tidal flows and elevations within the proposed new wetlands area and 

 transport and dispersion within the tidally-varying regions. From these 

 results qualitative assessments of water quality were obtained. A l-to-75 

 scale physical model of the proposed navigable ocean entrance system was 

 constructed at WES to determine wave penetration into the marina area, to 

 examine the influence of storm water flows into the complex, and to provide an 

 initial functional configuration for the detached breakwater and entrance 

 channel . 



This paper reviews the purpose and scope of the WES studies, describes the 

 engineering methodologies employed in the various phases of the effort, 

 discusses representative products, and provides an overview of the studies so 

 that nontechnical people involved in the Bolsa Chica decision process can 

 obtain a more complete understanding of the role of the WES studies. 



PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE WES STUDIES 



Purpose . The primary purpose of the WES studies was to apply established 

 engineering methodologies along with unique WES capabilities to estimate 

 probable impacts that could result from the construction of either the propos- 

 ed navigable entrance alternative, or the non-navigable entrance alternative 

 at Bolsa Chica. In meeting this objective WES performed the following general 

 tasks : 



a. Tested the proposed development concepts using both physical and 

 numerical models. 



b. Analyzed and interpreted model results. 



c. Provided technical documentation of the study results. 



d. Presented study results at public workshops. 



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