Past variation in Lower Peace River ice-jam flood frequency

Research on the Lower Peace River ice-jam flood frequency reveals that flood frequency was declining for decades before river regulation, contrary to prior interpretations suggesting acceleration. Paleolimnological records from perched lakes in the Peace-Athabasca Delta indicate increasing lake evaporation during 1880–1967, aligning with long-term climate-driven declines rather than hydroelectric regulation. This study synthesizes traditional knowledge, historical observations, and paleohydrological data to reconcile uncertainties, providing critical insights for UNESCO's assessment of Wood Buffalo National Park's World Heritage status and its federally funded Action Plan.

Wolfe, B. B., Hall, R. I., Wiklund, J. A., & Kay, M. L. (2020). Past variation in Lower Peace River ice-jam flood frequency. Environmental Reviews, 28(3), 209–217. https://doi.org/10.1139/er-2019-0047