Investigations of the water cycle and hydrological processes of the subarctic Canadian Shield
Principal Investigator: Spence, Christopher (8)
Licence Number: 14104
Organization: Environment Canada
Licensed Year(s): 2017 2016 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007
Issued: Feb 06, 2007

Objective(s): The objective of the research is to determine the water cycle processes in lakes and streams affecting Baker Creek and similar streams, and more generally to understand how small scale processes influence those of larger areas.

Project Description: The objective of the research is to determine the water cycle processes in lakes and streams affecting Baker Creek and similar streams, and more generally to understand how small scale processes influence those of larger areas. Field studies at Baker Creek, a typical Canadian Shield stream that drains ~130 km2 into Great Slave Lake, will focus on the spring melt and summer seasons. Existing infrastructure (two climate towers, and a hydrometric gauge) will be used for the field program. Meteorological conditions will be measured at the two climate towers and streamflow will be measured at sites along the creek. Snow surveys will be conducted each spring. Evaporation from selected lakes will be estimated using water temperature measured with thermistor strings on anchored floats. Water storage in the soil will be measured using automated soil moisture and well sensors. Water samples will be analyzed to derive of water sources and pathways. Ground truthing of satellite images will take place in order to map surface wetness and estimate surface runoff. Reports will be submitted to the Aurora Research Institute. The study will be conducted from February 8 to December 31, 2007 at Baker Creek basin, centered at 62 36.6 N 114 24.6 W, and located 5 km north of Yellowknife. A spring and summer camp will be established at Vital Lake (62 36 N 114 26.9 W).