Wave Exposure Model

Understanding the hydrodynamics of the coast, especially the waves associated with storms, is essential to managing the fragile coastal environment. This model is a free and easy-to-use tool that helps coastal managers, ecologists, and physical hydrologists estimate wave energy and its effects on ecosystem functions, as well as on developed coastal and inland-water areas.

Features

• Forecasts and "hindcasts" wind wave energy and the movement of seafloor sediment in enclosed water bodies such as lakes, coastal bays, and estuaries
• Provides a foundation for studying or modeling restoration efforts, seafloor and shoreline erosion, and the tolerance limits of habitats
• Works well with standard data formats and factors such as shoreline erosion, fauna, and landscape patterns
• Guides the classification of wave data into wave energy patterns useful for choosing sampling regimes
• Adjusts to wind events that are chronic, extreme, or combined with storm surge
• Adapts for use by non-specialists in hydrodynamics
• Requires basic knowledge of geographic information systems