Aeolis is a process-based, multifractional aeolian sediment transport model that was developed specifically for systems that are supply limited, such as coastal environments. The model has both 1D (transect) and 2D (plane) capabilities to model cross-shore and longshore aeolian sediment transport that leads to coastal foredune development and coastal inlet infilling. Developments to the model allow for the simulation of beach armoring processes, the effects of sand fences, and the impact of different vegetation properties. Furthermore, the Aeolis model allows the user control over conditions such as the wet/dry interface of the beach, vegetation growth rates, and a sample of grain sizes. The Aeolis model can be summarized through its inputs (site conditions and alternative scenarios) and model steps seen in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Aeolis inputs and model steps in a schematic

Aeolis is open-source and available publicly on the ERDC GitHub aeolis-python repository (link below). The model can be used with any Windows, MacOS, or Linux machine using a standard Python installation. A step-by-step training course developed by the Engineering Research and Development Center is also available at ERDC GitHub repository below within the “Tutorial” folder and leads the user through installation, model setup, and complete 1-D application of the model through multiple case studies that increase in complexity. The “Read the Docs” link below provides further background and support for the model including feature update information and documentation.