Numerical Modelling of Fish Passage with Turning Pools

Abstract An assessment of operating conditions in a baffled fish passage with pool dimensions of 2.2 × 3.0 m, and 180° horizontally turning pools, was carried out using numerical computations and a site survey of water flow velocity distribution. Velocity was measured with a PMS electromagnetic flowmeter and a hydrometric current meter in representative cross-sections of the fish passage in the pool centres and in the baffle barrier cross-section area. Numerical computations were also performed for two alternative baffle locations in the fishway. One reflected the actual conditions, and the other was an alternative arrangement designed to improve hydraulic conditions for fish migration. The numerical model used the Large Eddy Simulation (LES) method, which makes it possible to detect large vortexes. The study pays close attention to the velocity field analysis as well as the distribution and sizes of vortexes in the turning pool of the culvert. The results of numerical computations and the site survey show high consistency, and the proposed baffle placement modification significantly improves flow conditions, especially in the entry section of the passage.