Author(s): Erik Ruijgh; Firmijn Zijl; Julio Monroy; Ivan Dominguez; Tom O’Mahoney

Linked Author(s): Julio Monroy, Ivan Dominguez

Keywords: Neo Panama Locks; Delft3D; Salt intrusion; Lock operation; Lake Gatun

Abstract: Since the opening of the Neo-Panamax Locks (June 26,2016) larger vessels can pass the Panama Canal. Both the water consumption of the Neo-Panamax locks and the salt intrusion into the freshwater reservoir Gatun Lake are of keen interest for the Panama Canal. In assignment of the Panama Canal, Deltares included the Neo-Panamax locks into the Lake Gatun Water Quality Model (LGWQM) to allow for the analysis of the effect of a range of measures to minimize both the water consumption of the locks (especially during the dry season) and the salt intrusion. Based on the comparison of calculation results of LGWQM with the available measurement data on water level and salinity in Lake Gatun, it is concluded the model describes the processes ruling the water consumption and salt distribution correctly. Measures like the reduction of the gate-open-times and the use of the Water Saving Basins are evaluated with LGWQM, as well as the use of bubble screens at the lock heads and several other measures. Some of the measures (the use of the Water Saving Basins and flushing) show an effect on the water consumption and the salt intrusion, whereas other measures (like reduction of the gate-open-times and bubble screens) only influence the salt intrusion. The Panama Canal will use the LGWQM calculation results in the preparation of the Water Management Project to select a combination of measures to maintain both the water level and water quality of Lake Gatun.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3850/978-90-833476-1-5_iahr40wc-p1634-cd

Year: 2023