Improve scientific modeling in the colorado river basin (basin)

While tools like the lake mead model have been long-established, this work will significantly expand modeling by amalgamating past field data with predictive physical model results to yield robust, defensible statistical models. These models can predict water quality in the basin under numerous projected future operating scenarios. Further, this project will extend physical modeling capabilities in the basin to cover the entire geographic area from upper lake mead down to parker DAM california aqueduct. Extending the physical model downstream will allow more access to water quality projections for municipal and agricultural users. Finally, this project will use drone data to expand upon current field data. The recipient plans to purchase a scientific drone and use IT to augment current field data, which can be used to improve and expand current and planned modeling efforts.activities to be performed include: 1) creating models and deliverables that are targeted towards reclamations water quality concerns and goals. These models will combine historic data with projected results in an easy-to-understand package that can be presented to both technical and nontechnical stakeholders. 2) increasing the geographic reach of physical models by continuing to expand the 3D lake model downstream, which affects approximately 25 million people. 3) augmenting current boat sampling efforts with drone sampling, with the idea to add sampling frequencies in difficult to access areas of the lake, which will in turn increase understanding of water quality of lake mead.deliverables and outcomes include: 1) a predictive machine learning model that can be used to assess the risks of water quality changes in the colorado river basin. 2) 3D model for the colorado river below davis DAM and lake havasu that can predict water quality under different future flow scenarios. 3) additional water quality data collected as part of the drone flights and modeling efforts. 4) presentations and publications.