Inter-annual variability of wet season freshwater plume extent into the Great Barrier Reef lagoon based on satellite coastal ocean colour observations [Draft]

Riverine freshwater plumes are the major transport mechanism for nutrients, sediments and pollutants. This paper explores using a physics based model using non-algal particulate matter and coloured dissolved organic matter (CDOM) as a useful surrogate for salinity in Great Barrier Reef coastal waters. Satellite remote sensing is a cost effective method for large scale mapping of CDOM. Remotely sensed freshwater extent is significantly correlated with river discharge.