NWT RESEARCH DATABASE

Tags: hydrology, meteorology, hydrological processes

Objective(s): The objective of this research is to determine the water cycle processes acting in lakes and streams that could affect the streamflow response of Baker Creek and similar streams. A second objective is to understand how processes acting over smaller areas influence those that are predominant over larger areas.

Project Description: The objective of this research is to determine the water cycle processes acting in lakes and streams that could affect the streamflow response of Baker Creek and similar streams. A second objective is to understand how processes acting over smaller areas influence those that are predominant over larger areas. The proposed work will take place within a research basin framework. The proposed site, Baker Creek, is a typical Canadian Shield stream that drains ~150 km2 into Great Slave Lake. There is significant existing infrastructure from which to build a strong field program that includes one Indian and Northern Affairs Canada and one Environment Canada climate towers, and a Water Survey of Canada hydrometric gauge. Snow surveys will be conducted each spring by taking ten snow depth measurements and six snow samples each at ten snow course sites. Streamflow will be measured at eight sites along Baker Creek with water depth sensors placed into the water in the spring and periodic stream velocity measurements by wading across the stream with a velocity sensor on a rod. Evaporation from selected lakes will be estimated using water temperature measured with thermistor strings on anchored floats. Water in the soil will be measured by drilling six shallow wells (less than a metre deep) and placing soil moisture sensors nearby. Weather conditions will be measured at two climate towers. Water samples will be taken at the streamflow sites and analyzed for ions and stable isotopes. Satellite imagery will be acquired and wet areas will be mapped using GPS surveys. This will permit mapping of wet areas through the summer season. Field studies will focus on the spring melt and summer seasons. It is the investigator's intention to discuss with the Yellowknives Dene First Nation, North Slave Métis Alliance and local INAC water managers the aspects of the hydrological research that could provide for synergies between the investigator's research goals and issues which the local communities believe are of importance. Informal discussions from both a scientific and traditional knowledge perspective on the local dynamics of the water cycle between the investigator and the local aboriginal groups could benefit both by the exchange of ideas. It is the investigator's intention to report regularly on the progress of the research with the Lands and Environment Coordinator of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation, North Slave Métis Alliance and local INAC water managers to ensure the transfer of knowledge for the benefit of northerners. This exchange could range from annual progress reports to community meetings, as time and resources permit. Unfortunately, funds for the project are limited, and there are presently no employment opportunities for northerners, but other funding sources are being pursued. The fieldwork for this study will be conducted from April 07 to December 31, 2009, at the Baker Creek basin (center at 62 36.6 N 114 24.6 W; center of ~160 sq km basin located 5 km north of Yellowknife).