Mapped differences in weighted wind fetch distances within the Upper Mississippi River System between 2000 and 2010/2011

Wind fetch is defined as the unobstructed distance that wind can travel over water in a constant direction. Fetch is an important characteristic of open water because longer fetch can result in larger wind-generated waves. The larger waves, in turn, can increase shoreline erosion and sediment re-suspension. Wind fetches were calculated using the wind fetch model available from (http://www.umesc.usgs.gov/management/dss/wind_fetch_wave_models_2012update.html) for aquatic areas within the Upper Mississippi River System. This toolbox calculates effective wind fetch using the recommended procedure of the Shore Protection Manual (USACE 1984). A baseline conditions assessment of wind fetch was conducted to assist the Upper Mississippi River [...]