Field evaluation of a microprocessor-based recording current meter modified for wave research

The need to estimate the resuspension and deposition of fine-grained sediments and their associated contaminant transport has, in shallow lakes and nearshore areas, called for the measurement of wave data as well as mean flows. Wave statistics recorded by a vector-average current meter over a two-week period are compared to independently measured wave data for a wave-dominated shallow lake at two depths. Wave orbital motions are within 3% of those determined by spectral analysis of frequently sampled currents. Wave propagation directions are within ±19° of spectrally determined directions and qualitatively similar to the fetch-weighted wind direction. Less satisfactory agreement was evident between the wave periods as determined by zero-crossings and the wave spectral peak periods. Reasonable wave periods could be inferred only when the r.m.s. orbital speed exceeded the mean speed. Another possible algorithm for evaluating wave period is tested and recommendations are made for improvements to the measurement system.