CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
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Author : Assini, J.; and Young, K.L.
Date : 2010.
Title : Snowcover and melt at Polar Bear Pass, Bathurst Island, Nunavut: Present and future conditions.
Publication : 7th Annual ArcticNet Scientific Meeting. December 15-17, 2010. The Westin Ottawa, Ottawa,Ontario.
Issue : Programme.
Page(s) : 27-28.
Abstract
In this talk we explore the present and future snowcover and melt patterns of Polar Bear Pass (PBP), an extensive low-gradient wetland situated in the middle of Bathurst Island, Nunavut. Our measured and modelled snowcover results from 2008 and 2009 indicate that snowcover here is largely controlled by wind and topography. Exposed hilltops are blown free of much snow, while stream valleys and lee of slopes collect the most. Within the wetland itself, subtle variations in microtopography (ponds, lakes, wet meadows, frost cracks) ensures some variability in the end-of winter snowcover and ensuing melt pattern. In addition, snowcover and melt varied across the Pass (both east to west and north to south). Snowcover receipt in 2008 and 2009 was low in comparison to other studies, while probability and snow depletion curves indicate similar melt rates. Projected changes in northern climate (e.g. warmer temperatures, enhanced snowfall) will have an effect on the timing and duration of spring melt here. Our modelled results indicate that the snowfree season could be increased by up to three weeks at PBP. Future spatial and temporal changes in snowmelt could have potential consequences on the timing of other hydrologic processes such as runoff, ground thaw and evaporation loss as well as vegetation communities at PBP.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology