BASEMENT v3: A modular freeware for river process modelling over multiple computational backends

Modelling river physical processes is of critical importance for flood protection, river management and resto-ration of riverine environments. Developments in algorithms and computational power have led to a wider spread of river simulation tools. However, the use of two-dimensional models can still be hindered by complexity in the setup and the high computational costs. Here we present the freeware BASEMENT version 3, a flexible tool for two-dimensional river simulations that bundles solvers for hydrodynamic, morphodynamic and scalar advection-diffusion processes. BASEMENT leverages different computational platforms (multi-core CPUs and graphics pro-cessing units GPUs) to enable the simulation of large domains and long-term river processes. The adoption of a fully costless workflow and a light GUI facilitate its broad utilization. We test its robustness and efficiency in a selection of benchmarks. Results confirm that BASEMENT could be an efficient and versatile tool for research, engineering practice and education in river modelling.

Automated summary

The freeware BASEMENT version 3 is a flexible tool for two-dimensional river simulations, incorporating solvers for hydrodynamic, morphodynamic, and scalar advection-diffusion processes. It leverages different computational platforms to efficiently simulate large domains and long-term river processes, making it a versatile tool for research, engineering practice, and education in river modelling.