CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
Search Results
Author : Dale, J.; and Byrne, M-L.
Date : 2011.
Title : Seasonal dune-forming processes in Point Pelee National Park, Ontario, Canada.
Publication : Canadian Association of Geographers Annual Meeting and Conference. May 31-June 4, 2011. University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta.
Issue : Program and Abstract Volume.
Page(s) : 73.
Abstract
A large section of dunes in Point Pelee National Park on the north shore of Lake Erie, Ontario, was previously paved for parking lots between 1951 and 1953. One of the parking lots was removed in 2008 to rehabilitate habitat for the endangered Five-lined Skink (Eumeces fasciatus). Seasonal field studies initiated in 2009 provide a better understanding of the modern aeolian processes, in order to reestablish the dunes, address habitat concerns, create a more natural park, and reduce human impact. Detailed GPS surveys of the affected and control sites were conducted and volumes and rates of sand transported analyzed using ArcGIS and Surfer mapping software. Sedimentological studies of the sands provide data on the sediment most susceptible to movement and deposition. Results show that most sediment transport is in the lake, moving alongshore towards the end of the Point Pelee spit, with little onshore translation of material. Most sand transport occurs in winter, but total amounts are low and unlikely to make significant contributions to the reformation of the dunes. Little change in shape and elevation of the sites was noted throughout the 2009-2011 GPS surveys. It is likely the dunes will have to be reformed and vegetated manually to ensure re-establishment.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology