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Canadian Water Resources Association 2025
Wednesday May 28, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
TBA
As glaciers retreat in response to climate change, groundwater is expected to play an increasingly important role in sustaining proglacial streamflow. This study investigates groundwater contributions to the Boundary Peak glacier proglacial stream in the Canadian Rockies, within the Columbia Icefields, using hydrometric, isotopic, and geochemical methods to evaluate baseflow contributions and groundwater–surface water interactions in a glacierized watershed. This research is based on fieldwork conducted in 2023 and 2024, capturing seasonal variability in groundwater discharge._x000D_
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Potential groundwater sources include subglacial flowpaths, adjacent rock glaciers, and deeper bedrock aquifers. Multiple tracer parameters—including stable isotopes, major ions, sulfate-silica relationships, radon, and tritium—are being analyzed alongside streamflow measurements to assess seasonal variability, groundwater residence times, and spatial trends in baseflow contributions. This research aims to clarify how groundwater sustains proglacial streamflow as glacier meltwater contributions decline, improving the understanding of long-term water availability and hydrologic resilience in alpine headwaters._x000D_
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With continued glacier loss in western Canada, understanding groundwater’s role in maintaining late-season streamflow is essential for water security, hydrologic modeling, and watershed management. This study refines conceptual models of groundwater–glacier interactions, enhancing our ability to assess future water supply risks in mountain watersheds._x000D_
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By evaluating groundwater’s role in buffering seasonal flow reductions, this research contributes to discussions on hydrologic variability, climate adaptation, and sustainable water resource planning. Findings will support evidence-based water management strategies, with implications for transboundary water governance and long-term hydrologic forecasting.
Wednesday May 28, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
TBA

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