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Simulation Databases

The Virtual Columbia River includes self-redundant long-term simulation databases of 4D (space-time) circulation, designed to characterize contemporary variability and change. Using realistic bathymetry and external forcing, these databases are the foundation for a Climatological Atlas of the Columbia River coastal margin.

Simulation coverage

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Completed
In queue
Not available
 
Database ID 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
DB11 * * * * * *          
DB14 * * * * * * *      
DB16 *        
DB22  
DB26 * *                      
Note: An asterisk in a table cell indicates there are partial results for that year. Go to the database page for details.

All databases start January 1, 1999, and all are based on unstructured grid models (currently SELFE, historically also ELCIRC). Databases differ in domain (river-to-shelf or estuary-focus) and/or modeling choices (e.g., discretization, numerical algorithms, and/or physical parameterization). 

Twenty two simulation databases (numbered sequentially, with the number preceded by DB) have been started. We actively maintain at least two databases at any given time, and store results for selected others after they become inactive. Maintenance implies keeping the database current through the “present”, which is defined operationally. We recently changed the target definition to “two days ago”. We anticipate that the transition to ;meet this ambitious target will be completed during the first semester of 2010.
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The following four databases are particularly noteworthy:
• DB14 (active): river-to-shelf reference
• DB16 (active): estuary-only reference
• DB22 (in development): targets improved representation of temperature; will be considered as replacement of DB14 as river-to-shelf reference
• DB11 (inactive): former river-to-shelf reference; last database using ELCIRC
The table above provides an inventory of simulation databases for which original output files are stored. Click on the database number for a description of that database and for access to associated products.