A new two-dimensional hydrodynamic model for of the Dutch Rhine Branches (Rijntakken) is currently under development. It is being built in the framework of the 6th generation modelling tools requested by the Directorate-General for Public Works and Water Management in the Netherlands (Rijkswaterstaat) in Delft3D FM. The model covers the Boven-Rijn, Waal, Pannerdens Kanaal, Neder-Rijn – Lek and IJssel branches. A D-Flow FM model is coupled to a D-RTC model of the structures at Driel, Amerongen and Hagestein.

The calibration phase has finished, which consisted of multiple steps. First each of the three Rhine-branches (Waal, Neder-Rijn – Lek and IJssel) was calibrated separately on 5 different historical periods. After that, the branches were connected and the entire model was calibrated on those same periods, now looking at discharge distribution to each branch as well, next to water levels. Calibration was performed using OpenDA. Right now, validation of the model is under way, for which 5 historical periods are run with a duration of 2 to 6 months. After the validation an operational model will be developed.