Wave Processes on Lake Mendota 

Madison, Wisconsin

Introduction

Wave Model

Wave Generation

Nearshore Processes

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Introduction:

The purpose of this project is to study wave processes on Lake Mendota, a large lake in Madison, Wisconsin.  The lake is heavily populated with personal and state properties, most notably the University of Wisconsin - Madison.  Lake Mendota has the following characteristics:

Area:                        3985 ha

Maximum Depth:         25.3 m

Shoreline Length:       35.2 km   

In this project a numerical model was used to define the wave climate around Lake Mendota.  The model is a tool used to assist in performing wave generation and transformation calculations.  People around Lake Mendota are always interested in the lake.  They are interested in water levels and wave heights.  People or organizations which own property around the lake are especially interested in wave heights near their shoreline.  Large waves or high water levels can create problems or damage their property.  A good understanding of the lake wave climate is necessary to plan any future improvements near or in the lake.  For example, a good understanding of the wave climate is necessary to provide any suitable revetment or shoreline structure designed to eliminate shoreline erosion. 

Author:  Chris Petykowski

Date: Dec 20, 2001

****The computer model used in this project is the MIKE 21 Nearshore Wave Module, produced by Danish Hydraulik Institute.  All results are preliminary in nature, have not been verified extensively and are NOT intended for any use by others.