As part of a research effort sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to study the dispersion of contaminants in near-shore areas of large lakes, the author developed numerical models which are capable of realistically describing the currents throughout large lakes and, in particular, in the near-shore regions of these lakes. The report summarizes work to date on these hydrodynamic models. The emphasis has been on the development and use of three-dimensional models. Three basic models and applications of these models are presented. The models are: (1) a steady-state, constant-density model; (2) a time-dependent, constant-density model; and (3) a time-dependent, variable-density model. Each model has its own limitations and has certain advantages over the others. Applications of each model, especially to flows in near-shore regions, have been made and are discussed. Vertically averaged models have also been used, usually in parametric studies, and a brief summary of these models is also given.

"EPA-600/3-76-020." Prepared by Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio. "Grant no. R-802359." Includes bibliographical references (pages 132-137).