CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
Search Results
Author : Bujak, C.A.
Date : 1974
Title : Recent palynology of Goat Lake and Lost Lake, Waterton National Park
Publication : Unpublished M.A. thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary
Issue :
Page(s) : 60 p
Abstract
Sediment cores were recovered from Goat and Lost Lakes in Waterton Lakes National Park, southwestern Alberta. Palynological analysis of samples (taken every one centimeter) along the length of two cores from each site was done to construct pollen diagrams which showed changes in relative percentages of each species. Carbon 14 dates on wood detritus near the base of the cores dated Goat Lake deposits at approximately 4610±440 years B.P. and Lost Lake sediments at just over 1630±160 years B.P. The Recent pollen assemblages were interpreted to show vegetation history. This was done on the basis of a comparison of modern pollen rain and present vegetation pattern. Regional vegetation was over-represented in the pollen, and local vegetation under-represented. The vegetation study also suggested that Abies lasiocarpa and Picea engelmannii were co-dominant in the local climax subalpine vegetation. Fossil pollen assemblages were correlated between cores with Carbon 14 dates, Pollen spectra were similar to that in the modern pollen rain throughout the lengths of the cores, and indicated the same species have been present both regionally and locally for about 4600 years. There was a small gradual increase in arboreal pollen at the expense of herbs and shrubs, as arboreal density and cover increased. Pinus contorta, dominant in all cores, was evidence of continued fire disturbance during the past 4600 years. Locally, Picea engelmannii and Abies lasiocarpa have always been present and co-dominant in climax subalpine communities. The distribution of avalanche detritus in all cores indicated avalanching has been common. However, at approximately 1630 years B.P. there is an Alnus sp. peak associated with avalanche detritus. This was believed to have been caused by a cooler and more moist climate with increased snowfall and extensive avalanching. This period corresponds to the Audubon Neoglacial event, (Mahaney 1972), but further evidence is needed to document this climatic change.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology