17. Next Generation Numerical Models to Address a Complex Future

Numerical models are essential tools to address many environmental issues including inundation, hypoxia, and harmful algal blooms. Scientists and engineers are continuing to develop models to simulate and forecast events of various space and time scales. New computational and networking capabilities are key to developing coupled models that will provide users with accurate environmental information, including uncertainty and probabilities. Increasing computing power allows a similar increase of spatial and temporal resolutions in coastal ocean models. Multidisciplinary and integrated modeling projects are improving our understanding of the interactions between physical and biogeochemical and biological phenomena. Model verification and validation is an essential component in producing accurate and credible models that highlight how ocean processes are shaping modern coastlines.