A boundary-value problem for the parameterized mesoscale eddy transport

We present a physically motivated boundary-value problem for each vertical ocean column, whose solution yields a parameterized mesoscale eddy-induced transport streamfunction. The new streamfunction is a nonlocal function of the properties of the fluid column. It is constructed to have a low baroclinic mode vertical structure and to smoothly transition through regions of weak stratification such as boundary layers or mode waters. It requires no special matching conditions or regularization in unstratified regions, and it naturally satisfies boundary conditions of zero transport at the ocean surface and bottom. Numerical implementation of the methodology is straightforward, as it merely requires the solution of a one-dimensional tridiagonal problem for each vertical column. To illustrate the approach, we present an analytical example based on the Eady problem and two numerical simulations.