The U.S. Geological Survey is offering a funding opportunity through the Great Basin Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit for research focused on numerical modeling of Bear River Bay outflow into Gilbert Bay of the Great Salt Lake. The selected CESU partner will develop a three-dimensional hydrodynamic model that solves the Navier-Stokes Equation and simulates salt transport, using the k-epsilon turbulence closure model. This model will utilize the finite element method for spatial discretization with the open-source solver Telemac-3D. Additionally, the partner will create physics-informed, data-driven models to estimate the flow at Bear River Bay outflow under various conditions using USGS-measured data. Accurate estimates of water flow between Bear River Bay and Gilbert Bay are critically needed to support ongoing hydrological monitoring and management efforts.

The project objectives are to utilize data collected by USGS, including water velocity and surface elevation measurements, to develop both hydrodynamic and physics-based data-driven models that can estimate outflow volume under a range of conditions. These models will address the unique complexities of hypersaline and highly density-stratified water systems in Bear River Bay. The results will contribute to a better understanding of hydrodynamic processes in the Great Salt Lake, supporting water resource management and scientific research.

It is anticipated that one award will be made for a project duration of three years with a total estimated funding amount of $277,500. Continuation of funding is contingent upon satisfactory progress and the availability of funds. Eligible applicants must be active partners of the Great Basin Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit program.

Applicants are required to submit proposals electronically through grants.gov. Proposals must include key information such as the principal investigator’s contact details, technical contacts, a list of available facilities and equipment, and staff qualifications. The proposal narrative must address the problem statement, clearly defined objectives, technical methods, planned deliverables, dissemination of results, and references cited. Budget sheets should include detailed line items for salaries, benefits, travel, lab analyses, supplies, equipment, publication costs, and other relevant expenses. Indirect costs are limited to the CESU-negotiated rate of 17.5%.

Proposals will be evaluated on four key criteria: the ability to produce hydrodynamic and physics-informed models, the technical approach, the appropriateness and clarity of the budget, and the qualifications and past performance of the research team. Applicants must demonstrate experience in hydrodynamic modeling, fluid dynamics, and physics-based data-driven modeling, with a particular focus on hypersaline and density-stratified water systems.

Recipients will be required to submit annual progress reports, financial reports, and a final technical report summarizing the results of the project. Reports must include comparisons of actual accomplishments to objectives, explanations for any delays, and plans for the next reporting period. Publications resulting from the project must acknowledge USGS support and comply with publication and data-sharing requirements. Final results must be submitted electronically to USGS and made available for public access.

For additional questions, applicants can contact Faith Graves, CESU Contract Specialist, at fgraves@usgs.gov. Proposals must adhere to all submission requirements and guidelines as outlined in the funding announcement.