Summary of BRANCH

NAME
       branch - Branch-Network Dynamic Flow Model

ABSTRACT
       The Branch-Network Dynamic Flow Model--BRANCH--is used to simulate
       steady or unsteady flow in a single open-channel reach (branch) or
       throughout a system of branches (network) connected in a dendritic
       or looped pattern.  BRANCH is applicable to a wide range of
       hydrologic situations wherein flow and transport are governed by
       time-dependent forcing functions.  BRANCH is particularly suitable
       for simulation of flow in complex geometric configurations involving
       regular or irregular cross sections of channels having multiple
       interconnections, but can be easily used to simulate flow in a
       single, uniform open-channel reach.  Time-varying water levels, flow
       discharges, velocities, and volumes can be computed at any location
       within the open-channel network.  Streamflow routing and computation
       by the BRANCH model is superior to simplified-routing methods in
       open-channel reaches wherein severe backwater and (or) dynamic flow
       conditions prevail.  Typical uses of the model encompass the
       assessment of flow and transport in upland rivers in which flows are
       highly regulated or backwater effects are evident, or in coastal
       networks of open channels wherein flow and transport are governed by
       the interaction of freshwater inflows, tidal action, and
       meteorological conditions.  Surface- and ground-water interactions
       can be simulated by the coupled BRANCH and USGS modular, three-
       dimensional, finite-difference ground-water flow (MODFLOW) models,
       referred to as MODBRNCH.