CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
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Author : Craig, A.; Steedman, J.; and Robert. J.
Date : 2002.
Title : Modifications to the hydrology and biogeochemistry of boreal forest catchments after clearcutting.
Publication : Annual Meeting of the Canadian Association of Geographers. Toronto, Ontario. May 27-28, 2002.
Issue :
Page(s) :
Abstract
Three headwater boreal forest catchments in NW Ontario have been hydrochemically monitored since 1994. Two of the three catchments were completely clearcut in June-August 1998 and all commercially valuable timber was removed. The third watershed remains undisturbed and serves as a long-term reference. Annual runoff has increased 35% and 72% over precut conditions. Differences in the increase in the runoff response of the two catchments are attributed to the degree of Aspen regeneration in each catchment. Peak stormflow discharges have also increased since clearcutting. Both experimental catchments exhibited increased losses of major cations, DOC, Cl, TKN and TP in relation to the reference catchment and these losses remain elevated four years after harvest. However, elevated runoff concentrations are declining. No detectable change in sediment transport or stream turbidity was measured although the character of the stream-borne organic material changed immediately after clearcutting. Soil moisture and wetland water levels remain elevated in relation to their pre disturbance state.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology