Studies of the spray zone of Churchill Falls, Labrador

Abstract

In 1970, with the cooperation of the Churchill Falls (Labrador) Corporation Limited, an intensive biological research programme was commenced in the Churchill Falls area. The initial objective is to study the spray zone of the Falls before it is altered by the diversion of the Churchill River. Spray from the Falls is apparently responsible for the maintenance of three spray pools and for the enriched flora and vegetation in the spray zone, which contains an abundance of moisture-loving plants. The vegetation shows abrupt changes with exposure to spray and there is a general retardation of the phenology. The forest in the spray zone is luxuriant in comparison with that outside the spray's influence. Bryophytes are the dominant cryptogams of the zone and have a high percentage fertility there. Permanent quadrats have been set up to monitor succession in typical sprayzone bryophyte communities. Work has also begun on black-fly pathogens and parasites. An intensified research programme is being continued in the spray zone and surrounding area by Memorial University through 1971 and hopefully in subsequent years.