Efforts are underway to develop improved management practices that will optimize flows for the seasonal migration of fish and maintain water quality standards for municipal water supplies at the export facilities. A variety of computer models have been developed to simulate existing conditions and to forecast the effects of different management scenarios. An essential component of 1, 2, and 3D models is accurate bathymetry. However, in some areas of the Delta sparse cross sections are the only recent bathymetric information available. Use of these limited observations in multi-dimensional models is problematic. The development of a high-resolution grid would simplify the estimation of tidal volumes, segment volumes, cross section areas, and improve consistency when comparing model results.

In the past, one dimensional models such as Delta Simulation Model II ( DSM2) have used bathymetry inputs at fixed cross sections. The Cross Section Development Program ( CSDP) was developed to define critical cross sections for use in these models. In order to model complex intersections and tidal flow it is necessary to move to 2 and 3D simulations, which require 2D bathymetry as an input. Consequently, the Interagency Ecological Program ( IEP) and the US Geological Survey - Place Based program ( PBS) has sponsored this work.