Effects of Selective Withdrawal on Temperature of Water Released of Glen Canyon Dam

Abstract

In order to reduce the negative effect of lower-temperature water released from the intake to the environment in the downstream reach, a selective withdrawal structure will adopted in Glen Canyon Dam. The 3D numerical model EFDC was used to simulate the velocity fields and water temperatures released with surface and lower withdrawal. The numerical results of water temperature released are validated with the measured data. The velocity fields with surface and lower withdrawal indicate that the mainstream of withdrawal water column is located near the elevation of withdrawal intake. Temperatures of water released from the surface and lower withdrawal are simulated for twelve months. The temperatures of water released with a surface withdrawal are effectively enhanced compared with the lower withdrawal.