Canadian Glacier Hydrology, 2003-2007

Abstract

Glacier hydrological research in Canada from 2002-2007 continues to advance, driven by new observations of glacier retreat in all regions of the country. New observation networks have been formed to study various aspects of glacier change and linkages with the hydrological system. Small-scale studies of accumulation and melt processes on glacier surfaces continue, and are being used to parameterize spatially distributed models of glacier mass balance and melt. Increasing emphasis has been placed on downscaling of regional and global climate model output to use as input to mass balance models. Advances in our understanding of water movement from the glacier surface to the bed has led to increased interest in runoff from glacierized catchments, which has significant policy implications for downstream water users. Continuing research includes maintenance and enhancement of field monitoring capabilities, improved algorithms to downscale climate model output, and adjustments to hydrological models to more accurately represent glacier cover for streamflow prediction.