Brass Model: Application to Savannah River System Reservoirs

Abstract

The BRASS (basin runoff and streamflow simulation) model was developed to improve the real‐time and predictive determination of flood discharges and stages, and to aid in flood management decisions within the Savannah River system. BRASS is an interactive hydrologic/hydraulic model that combines aspects of continuous and event hydrologic simulation with dynamic streamflow routing, and represents a significant step in the evolution of flood forecasting and flood management techniques. Model datasets were developed for the three major multipurpose reservoirs in the Savannah River system. Practical considerations in development, calibration, verification, and application are discussed. Standard flood management procedures are compared to BRASS results, indicating a potential for improvement in the use of flood control storage, as well as the inaccuracy of hydrologic routing methods. In addition to real‐time water control management, the model has been successfully used in the analysis of flooding in coastal areas, spillway design and design flood operations for dams, emergency operations for dam failures, and the design of channel modifications for flood control.