Harmonic Analysis of Currents in Humboldt Bay

Presentation Year

2024

College or Department

College of Natural Resources & Sciences

Short Description of your Research or Creative Project (700 characters or less)

Currents can shape the structure and ecology of estuarine environments. Multiyear time series of current data measured by two Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCPs) in Humboldt Bay, CA, one near the entrance channel and one at the Chevron Port, were analyzed to determine the contributions of the different harmonic frequencies. Spectral analysis of the time series data revealed that the flow is dominated by several tidal harmonics. The three dominant frequencies include M2, K1, and O1, but their contribution varies spatially between the two stations. Additional frequencies in the data indicate interference with topography as well as the more variable wind-induced currents.

Permission to Publish Work

Yes

Primary Contact: First Name

Steven

Primary Contact: Last Name

Gracy

Primary Contact: Email

sg351@humboldt.edu

Primary Contact: I am a

Undergraduate Student

Primary Contact: Phone Number

7076596047