Question
My MIKE+ Collection Systems license includes the “Natural Channel” feature. When and why would I need to use the MIKE+ Rivers module?
Answer
1 - Open channel modelling using MIKE+ and the River module
Open channel modelling using MIKE+ should be using the Rivers module. The Rivers module provides very powerful map functions, such as displaying cross sections and river tracing from a Digital Elevation Model (DEM). This module also supports additional, river-related structure types (such as bridges, gates, controls, dam break, and energy loss) and overall promotes a more seamless and flexible workflow when defining and working with river networks and associated parameters (roughness, not the least).
2 - The implementation of natural channels included in MIKE+ Collection Systems
The implementation of natural channels included in MIKE+ Collection Systems can be advantageous in special cases where a city sewer system where a small and simple urbanized creek interacts with sewer system but does not implicate complex hydrodynamics or structures. This implies that the core focus of the study/analysis lies on the Collection Systems pipes and manholes and not on the receptor urban creek.
The 'Natural Channel' feature was once added in MIKE+ to support migration from MIKE URBAN Collection Systems setups. With the introduction of MIKE+, being a more integrated product, this need is no longer immediately relevant.
Conclusion
Ideally, the MIKE+ Rivers module should be used when working with river models. 'Natural Channel' feature is only a light version of the MIKE+ Rivers functionality.
FURTHER INFORMATION & USEFUL LINKS
Manuals and User Guides
MIKE+ River Network Modelling, User Guide
Training options
MIKE+ - Getting started with river modelling
MIKE+ - Getting started with urban drainage modelling
MIKE+ - How to model control rules in wastewater collection, urban drainage and river networks