Numerical 

Modeling

River1D Hydrodynamic and Ice Process Model

River1D is a public-domain one-dimensional finite element hydrodynamic model which also include the following river ice processes:

Ongoing Development

The River1D Ice Process model is free to use. The download package provides the latest version of the River1D programs, reference manual, and sample input files.

Latest  release: April 29, 2024 [Release Notes]

Added snow layer of constant thickness in the thermal module

Added ice jam profile simulation in channel network

Rating curve boundary condition

New option to output results to an SQLITE database

New River1D file generator to set up an input file quickly

Improvements to user interface

Improvements to facilitate multi-year simulation

Previous versions:

Post your questions regarding the software here so the developers or other users can participate the discussion.

Example Applications of River1D Ice process model

River1D Ice Process model has been successfully applied to simulate various ice processes on several rivers in Canada and across the world.

Multi-channel networks, like river deltas and confluences, are particularly susceptible to ice jamming because of their low channel gradients, channel junctions, and the presence of mid-channel islands. Ice jams are often associated with high water levels which can lead to flooding. Here we use River1D Network model to simulate the ice jams and the associated water levels during the 2009 river breakup on the Hay River Delta.

Blackburn, J. and She, Y. (2023). The simulation of ice jam profiles in multi-channel systems using a one-dimensional network model. Cold Regions Science and Technology, 208, 103796. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coldregions.2023.103796

Simulated ice jam profile in Hay River Delta (May 5 2009)

Map of the study reach on the Susitna River, AK

Numerical model is a powerful tool when used in conjunction with good laboratory and/or field data.  In this study, we calibrated and validated River1D Ice Process model with unprecedentedly comprehensive field data of the Susitna River, Alaska. Shown in the figures below are a comparison of the modeled and observed ice front location and water temperature during the winter 2012. The validated model can then be used to evaluate the impact of climate change and anthropogenic activities on river ice processes.

Blackburn, J. and She, Y. (2019). A comprehensive public-domain river ice process model and its application to a complex natural river. Cold Regions Science and Technology, 163, 44-58. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coldregions.2019.04.010

Modeled and observed ice front propagation

Modeled and observed water temperature variation

River2D Hydrodynamic Model

River2D is a two dimensional depth averaged finite element hydrodynamic model that has been customized for fish habitat evaluation studies. River2D is equipped to model flow under an ice cover of known geometry, either in a completely or a partially ice-covered domain.

See details and download the latest version of River2D at www.River2D.ca