Project I.2.3b: Surface radar - RiverRad

Project Name: I.2.3b Surface radar - RiverRad
Project Team Members: Bill Plant

Project Description
RiverRad is a coherent radar that will image a section of the Columbia River, west of the Astoria Megle bridge. Images of surface roughness and surface velocity will be acquired continuously, each image taking 8 to 10 minutes and covering a 70 to 90 degree arc approximately 8 km in radius.

Fit in program
Maps of surface velocities obtained with HF radars along large segments of the US coast are transforming the ability to understand and simulate shelf circulation. We are looking for an equivalent solution with high enough resolution to be applicable to estuaries.

Outcomes
RiverRad has been deployed experimentally since mid-April 2009. Anticipated outcomes include maps and values of surface velocities. Initial analysis of data quality is in progress. Incorporation of data into the CMOP database is in progress.