CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
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Author : Devito, K.; Creed, I.; Gan, T.; Mendoza, C.; Petrone, R.; Silins, U.; and Smerdon, B.
Date : 2005.
Title : A framework for applying broad scale catchment classification to water research and management in Boreal Plains Canada: Should topography be one of the last things to think of?
Publication : Canadian Geophysical Union Annual Science Meeting, Banff, Alberta. May 8-11, 2005.
Issue :
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Abstract
We present a climatic and landscape framework for defining effective hydrologic response units at both local and regional scales. This framework summarizes research at the Utikuma Research Study Area (URSA), Alberta, Canada, where sub-humid climate (P < PET), low relief and deep glaciated substrates result in the dominance of vertical water exchange, soil storage and evapotranspiration, rather than runoff (i.e., overland and inter-flow), in hillslope water balances. Further, variations in scale of surface-water and groundwater interactions are associated with spatial heterogeneity of glacial landforms (e.g., sand outwash, clay-silt moraines, and low-lying peatlands) that preclude the use of topographic watershed boundaries to define water sources. Our work shows that regional sampling and mapping to select representative landscape units, rather than topographically defined watersheds, is imperative for effective generalizations of water and energy cycles in the western boreal forest. Comparisons of the differences in hydrologic cycling and responses with other regions are synthesized into a framework to aid in developing conceptual landform classification schemes for the delineation of hydrologic systems. Such a framework should contribute to a set of globally agreed upon variables to define domains of applicability of scaling indices and specific structure of hydrologic models. While recognizing the importance of topographic indices, we emphasize the importance of considering both climate and regional and local scale landform characteristics, prior to traditional topographic definitions. Thus, determining how landform influences the scale at which aquatic systems are linked to their surroundings, and how disturbance disrupts these linkages, becomes paramount. Such a framework will aid in regionalization of catchment hydrology, direct the effective use of instrumentation, monitoring and modeling approaches, and direct adaptive management of water resources in both simple and complex landscapes.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology