In the spring and winter months, water monitoring technologists from Alberta Environment and Protected Areas embark on monthly expeditions to the alpine region of Alberta to assess snowpack levels. This information is vital for managing reservoir levels, predicting potential flooding, and understanding the intricate hydrological cycle of the alpine environment. Despite recent snowfall, the snowpack in the Bow Valley remains approximately 20% below normal for this time of year. According to technologist Dennis Rollag, the snowpack was as low as 60% prior to the March snowfall. However, he anticipates the majority of snowfall to occur during the spring months. This year, the Alberta government is also collecting snow samples for isotopic analysis. This analysis will provide insights into the isotopic signatures of snow, aiding in the identification of snowmelt components in groundwater recharge and surface runoff. The collected data will deepen our understanding of the hydrological cycle and the duration that water spends in various stages of the cycle. Snowpack monitoring will continue through June, as Alberta typically experiences significant snowfall during the spring. The findings from these assessments will inform decisions regarding reservoir management, flood forecasting, and potential water restrictions or fire bans during the summer months.
Snowpack Monitoring in Alberta’s Alpine Reveals Concerns Ahead of Spring Runoff
