NWT RESEARCH DATABASE

Regions: North Slave Region

Tags: physical sciences, permafrost, hydrology, water chemistry

Objective(s): To determine the water cycle processes acting in watersheds that could affect the streamflow response and water chemistry of Taiga Shield streams.

Project Description: It is the objective of this research to determine the water cycle processes acting in watersheds that could affect the streamflow response and water chemistry of Taiga Shield streams. The proposed work will take place within a research basin framework. The proposed watershed, the upper reaches of 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 several 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 with 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 chemistry and stable isotopes. Field observations will be made throughout the year. It is the investigator's intention to discuss with the Yellowknives Dene First Nation, North Slave Metis Alliance, Tlicho Government and local Government of Northwest Territories (GNWT) water managers the aspects of the hydrological research that could provide for synergies between the investigator's research goals and issues which the Yellowknives, the NSMA and the Tlicho government believe are of importance. Informal discussions that help bridge scientific and traditional knowledge perspectives on the local dynamics of the water cycle between the investigator and the local First Nations 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 Yellowknives Dene First Nation, North Slave Metis Alliance, Tlicho Government and local GNWT water managers to ensure the transfer of knowledge for the benefit of northerners. This exchange could range from annual progress reports to individual face-to-face meetings to community meetings, as time and resources permit. It is the investigator's intention to attempt to report regularly on the progress of the research. This exchange could range from annual progress reports to face-to-face meetings, to community meetings, as time and resources permit. The fieldwork for this study will be conducted from February 7, 2017 to December 31, 2017.