Incorporating Optics into a Coupled Physical-Biological Forecasting System in the Monterey Bay

Abstract : Modeling and predicting ocean optical properties for coastal waters requires linking optical properties with the physical, chemical, and biological processes in the upper ocean. Our long-term goal is to incorporate optical processes into coupled physical-biological models for coastal waters, develop and improve integrated ocean forecasting systems, including prediction of ocean optical properties. 1) To improve performance of the coupled physical-biological model, which is based on the Regional Ocean Model System (ROMS), for the Monterey Bay; 2) To incorporate optical variables into a one-dimensional (1D) physical-biological as well as the improved coupled 3D physical-biological model for the Monterey Bay; 3) To use these variable to drive a radiative transfer model (HydroLight/EcoLight) that will simulate and predict the subsurface light field as well as the ocean's color; 4) To conduct ROMS-biological-optical model simulations for the Monterey Bay with focus on two intensive field experiments, ANOS II (August 2003) and Monterey Bay 2006 (August 2006), and use the bio-optical measurements to constrain and improve the models.