TER74 - Impacts of climate change on water quality and quantity, and implications for water

Climate and landscape change are having profound effects on Arctic freshwater systems. Rising air and ground temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and permafrost thaw are modifying key hydrological controls, such as the duration of the ice-free season, evaporation, the intensity of spring snowmelt and summer rainfall events, and lateral flow pathways. As these factors control the movement of water, they also facilitate the delivery of organic and inorganic material to and through aquatic networks. The hydrological and water quality impacts of climate and landscape change are complex, varying both temporally and based on terrain conditions. Even so, understanding the nature and magnitude of these impacts is critical, as they directly affect the water security of Arctic communities. In this session, we invite submissions that report the effects of climate and landscape change on the hydrology and water quality of Arctic freshwater systems and the implications for water security. 

Co-Chairs: Erika Hille, Aurora Research Institute 

Mike Palmer, Aurora Research Institute 

Elise Devoie, Queens University 

Melissa Lafrenière, Queens University