Numerical modelling of river morphodynamics: Latest developments and remaining challenges

Numerical morphodynamic models provide scientific frame- works for advancing our understanding of river systems. The re- search on involved topics is an important and socially relevant un- dertaking regarding our environment. Nowadays numerical models are used for different purposes, from answering questions about basic morphodynamic research to managing complex river en- gineering problems. Due to increasing computer power and the development of advanced numerical techniques, morphodynamic models are now more and more used to predict the bed patterns evolution to a broad spectrum of spatial and temporal scales. The development and the success of application of such models are based upon a wide range of disciplines from applied mathemat- ics for the numerical solution of the equations to geomorphol- ogy for the physical interpretation of the results. In this light we organized this special issue (SI) soliciting multidisciplinary con- tributions which encompass any aspect needed for the develop- ment and applications of such models. Most of the papers in the SI stem from contributions to session HS9.5/GM7.11 on numerical modelling and experiments in river morphodynamics at the Euro- pean Geosciences Union (EGU) General Assembly held in Vienna, April 27th to May 2nd 2014.