Mathematical model studies of tidal behaviour in the Bay of Fundy

Two mathematical models of M₂tidal behaviour in the Bay of Fundy are described. The first is a detailed numerical one of the Bay and the Gulf of Maine, with realistic depths, extending out to the edge of the continental shelf. Good reproduction of the existing tidal regime is achieved. Use of the model to estimate the effects of permeable and impermeable barriers, located in the upper reaches of the Bay, is discussed. The second tidal model, based on analytical solutions, employs a simple representation of the Bay consisting of a system of frictionless channels. In this, the tidal perturbations introduced by a barrier placed across the entrance to Minas Basin are determined and the effect of different open-sea radiation conditions on the results investigated. The numerical and analytical studies are complementary, jointly aimed at assessing and understanding the influence on the tides of possible hydro-electric installations in the head waters of the Bay.