MURGOM (MUltilayer Reduced Gravity Ocean Model) is a numerical ocean model for with the simulating the mesoscale current and thermohaline structures in the ocean. It is a three-dimensional, multilayer, eddy-resolving ocean model.

MURGOM is a layer model where the thicknesses vary in time and space. The model calculates the mean current, salinity, temperature and density in each active layer. The layers are separated by non-material interfaces and it allows for mixing between layers.

The model is forced by wind, atmospheric pressure and rivers together with density differences in the water masses, either through the surface or laterally via open boundaries.

MURGOM include modules for calculation of transport and dispersion of dissolved substances, e.g. nutrients, biomass or contaminants. A tracking module is also implemented to follow passive particles in the water.

The model allows high resolution of horizontal mesoscale structures, i.e. eddies and fronts and simulations in areas close to the coast. MURGOM can easily be set up and has Geographical Information System (GIS) as a user interface. The current results may be used as input to DNV’s oil drift models such as SHOREDRIFT and OILTRAJ.

The model has been applied in several Norwegian fjords to calculate the influence area in connection with oil spills and planning of sewerage systems and dredging.

The figure below shows the surface current and an oil spill from a simulation in Fensfjorden.

References:

1. Skåtun, H., Eutrofisituasjonen i Ytre Oslofjord Delområde 3.3. Transportmodell av overflatelaget i Ytre Oslofjord. Rapport 1: Modellen og dens åpne grenseflater, Rapportnr. 88-3422, Veritas Offshore Technology and Services A/S, 1988
   
2. Dube, S. K., M. E. Luther, and J. J. O’Brien, Documentation of the FSU Indian Ocean Model, Cooperative Indian Ocean Modeling Project Technical report, Mesoscale Air-Sea Interaction Group, The Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, 1986