The acoustic-Doppler current profiler (ADCP): A comprehensive tool for river-reach hydromorphodynamics

Advances in Water Resources
By: , and 

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Abstract

This paper introduces the use of acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) measurements as input for the Acoustic Mapping Velocimetry (AMV) method, a technique for characterizing the dynamics of riverine bedforms. The performance of this new approach, ADCP-AMV, is compared with input from a multibeam echosounder through a field study conducted on the Mississippi River (USA). A virtual ADCP tool has been created to support the ADCP-AMV measurements with optimal data density predictions. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first time ADCP measurements have been used in conjunction with the AMV dune-tracking method. Subsequently, the paper discusses the coupling of ADCP-AMV measurements with ancillary data extracted from the ADCP. These ancillary data are processed using previously developed protocols to characterize hydrodynamics and the suspended sediment distribution in the water column. This paper emphasizes the capability of ADCPs to characterize open-channel river hydromorphodynamic parameters with high spatiotemporal resolution. Recommendations to accurately and efficiently acquire these multi-variable measurements and derived datasets are discussed.

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Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title The acoustic-Doppler current profiler (ADCP): A comprehensive tool for river-reach hydromorphodynamics
Series title Advances in Water Resources
DOI 10.1016/j.advwatres.2025.105180
Volume 206
Year Published 2025
Language English
Publisher Elsevier
Contributing office(s) Lower Mississippi-Gulf Water Science Center
Description 105180, 15 p.
Country United States
State Tennessee
City Memphis
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