Evaluation of extreme events (ice jams) and deep scour holes on Mackenzie Delta channels

Regions: Inuvialuit Settlement Region, Gwich'in Settlement Area

Tags: climatology, hydrology, flooding, ice jams, riverbed scouring

Principal Investigator: Prowse, Terry D (13)
Licence Number: 13755
Organization: University of Victoria
Licensed Year(s): 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004
Issued: Mar 07, 2005
Project Team: Daniel Pet

Objective(s): This study is a continuation and expansion of two previous studies on extreme flooding and deep scour holes along the Mackenzie River. The objectives of this research are to 1) quantify the frequency and magnitude of ice jams at the confluence of the Mackenzie River and Arctic Red River and downstream on the delta channels, 2) determine the hydroclimatic conditions controlling the occurrence of ice jams and associated floods, as well as the source areas of spring flooding, 3) develop/calibrate a hydraulic model of ice jamming for the Mackenzie Delta, and 4) investigate the importance of deep scour holes, which can be up to 30 m deep or 5-6 times the average channel depth. This project will help guide future research of climate change impacts and adaptations for the Mackenzie Delta region. The present field study site is on the East Channel of the Mackenzie River, on navigable waters / ice road at the boundary of the Inuvialuit Settlement Region and the Gwich'in Settlement Area. The researchers will consult the communities if/when new field study sites are added to the project.