Monitoring and Modelling of Sediment Flushing : A Review

With ever decreasing potential for suitable new dam sites, sustainable use of existing water reservoirs is paramount importance. In absence appropriate measures, reservoir storage continually reduced due to sedimentation. One option remove sediment deposits hydraulic flushing. During the flushing operation, bottom outlets are open and released. Whether successfully removes depends on a number factors, such as capacity, shape availability. Modelling often used assess viability management in reservoir, well design operations optimize their scheduling. One-dimensional numerical models preferred long term simulations, assessments large scenarios, optimization studies. Two- three-dimensional physical can be used, each own or combination hybrid models, understand local scouring near gates other details operation. Monitoring help improving efficiency while at same time limit downstream impacts. General monitoring its catchment understanding sedimentation problem thus facilitate preparation efficient strategies. Live concentrations possible with modern equipment though not without challenges, survey performed faster. Earth observation techniques also an attractive option, allowing monitor areas difficult access, provide historical information going back several decades. This paper reviews modelling approaches published literature, presents some previously unpublished analyses.