Field evaluation of the Automated Barge Clearing Deterrent (ABCD): Hydrodynamic, navigation, and fish response effects
Links
- More information: Publisher Index Page (via DOI)
- Download citation as: RIS | Dublin Core
Abstract
The escape and subsequent spread of invasive carp (notably, bighead carp [Hypophthalmichthys nobilis] and silver carp [H. molitrix]) from aquaculture ponds and sewage lagoons into the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers poses a significant risk to further spread of these fish into the Great Lakes. Prior research demonstrated that commercial tows can transport juvenile invasive carp through locks and other barriers to fish migration. A recent physical model study recommended a linear array of bubble diffusers, the Automated Barge Clearing Deterrent (ABCD), for further evaluation in mitigating the transport of small fish in commercial tows. The present field study evaluated the ABCD for navigation safety and barge junction flushing capacity. An instrumented commercial tow executed 119 lock approaches with the ABCD both operating and idle. Pilot interviews and tow trajectory analysis indicated no significant navigation safety issues. The measured velocity data, fish recapture data, and a simple fish displacement model indicated that the ABCD produced sufficient flow to expel all passive objects and many small juvenile invasive carp. However, the ABCD is less likely to expel large juvenile invasive carp due to their stronger swimming ability. The ABCD and two alternative configurations prove strong contenders for further development and application.
Suggested Citation
Smith, S.J., LeRoy, J.Z., Wainwright, C., and Glubzinski, M., 2026, Field evaluation of the Automated Barge Clearing Deterrent (ABCD): Hydrodynamic, navigation, and fish response effects: Technical Report ERDC/CHL TR-26-7, xii, 114 p., https://doi.org/10.21079/11681/50168.
Study Area
| Publication type | Report |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Federal Government Series |
| Title | Field evaluation of the Automated Barge Clearing Deterrent (ABCD): Hydrodynamic, navigation, and fish response effects |
| Series title | Technical Report |
| Series number | ERDC/CHL TR-26-7 |
| DOI | 10.21079/11681/50168 |
| Publication Date | April 14, 2026 |
| Year Published | 2026 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | Engineer Research and Development Center |
| Contributing office(s) | Central Midwest Water Science Center |
| Description | xii, 114 p. |
| Country | United States |
| State | Illinois |
| Other Geospatial | Illinois River, Peoria Lock and Dam |