Modeling the Dynamics of the Great Salt Lake as an Integrator of Regional Hydrologic and Climate Processes

摘要: Abstract The Great Salt Lake (GSL), Utah, is the fourth largest, perennial, terminal lake in world. (GSL) level fluctuates due to balance between inflows and outflows. These fluctuations are of interest whether they high (flooding hazards) or low (economic impacts). Inflows streamflow, primarily from Bear River (54%), Weber (18%) Jordan/Provo (28%). also include precipitation directly on groundwater both East West sides. only outflow evaporation that controlled by climate, area changes with level. GSL reached historic levels above 1284 m 1873 1986. A at 1278 occurred 1963. represent integrated effect climate hydrologic processes as well dynamic interaction volume, salinity impact lake. topographic area-volume relationship plays a role system dynamics because control outflux. This paper examines relationships Basin (precipitation temperature), (primarily streamflow) outflows (evaporation). played elevation-area-volume correspondence modes volume distributions peaks derivatives was examined. We derived, using steady state approximation, derivative topography/bathymetry. analysis showed topography /bathymetry multimodality distribution required explain observed distribution. separated into increases spring (due runoff) declines fall evaporation) then related these volumes precipitation, basinwide inputs. results this study improve understanding sensitivity interplay thereby contribute knowledge interactions longterm large-scale fluctuations. Motivation