Comparing the efficiency of hypoxia mitigation strategies in an urban, turbid tidal river, using a coupled hydro sedimentary–biogeochemical model

International audienceIn view of future coastal hypoxia widespreading, it is essential to define management solutions to preserve a good quality of coastal ecosystems. The lower Tidal Garonne River (TGR, SW France), characterized by the seasonal presence of a turbidity maximum zone and urban water discharges, is subject to episodic hypoxia events during summer low river flow periods. The future climatic conditions (higher temperature; summer droughts) but also an increasing urbanization could enhance hypoxia risks near the city of Bordeaux in the next decades. A 3D model of dissolved oxygen (DO), which couples hydrodynamics, sediment transport and biogeochemical processes, is used to assess the efficiency of different management solutions on TGR oxygenation during summer low-discharge periods. We have runned different scenarios of reduction of urban sewage overflows, displacement of urban discharges downstream from Bordeaux, and/or temporary river flow support during summer period. The model shows that each option limits hypoxia, but with variable efficiency over time and space. Sewage overflow reduction improves DO levels only locally near the city of Bordeaux. Downstream relocation of wastewater discharges allows to reach better oxygenation level in the lower TGR. The support of low river flow limits the upstream TMZ propagation and dilutes TGR waters with well-oxygenated river waters. Scenarios combining wastewater network management and low water replenishment indicate an improvement in water quality over the entire TGR. These modelling outcomes constitute important tools for local water authorities to develop the most appropriate strategies to limit hypoxia in TG