A new lake classification scheme for the Peace-Athabasca Delta (Canada) characterizes hydrological processes that cause lake-level variation

A new lake classification scheme for the Peace-Athabasca Delta, a UNESCO-listed Ramsar Wetland within Wood Buffalo National Park, identifies four distinct patterns of lake-level variation driven by hydrological processes. These include 'Drawdown' (due to evaporation or outflow), 'Stable' levels sustained by rainfall, 'Gradual Rise' from inundation, and 'Rapid Rise' caused by river floodwater input. The study, based on continuous measurements at 50 lakes during the open-water seasons of 2018 and 2019, reveals that river flooding is a significant but under-recognized recharge mechanism, particularly in the Athabasca sector. This classification scheme enhances understanding of lake-level dynamics, which are critical for managing habitat degradation and navigation routes threatened by climate change and upstream energy projects.

Neary, L. K., Remmer, C. R., Krist, J., Wolfe, B. B., & Hall, R. I. (2021). A new lake classification scheme for the Peace-Athabasca Delta (Canada) characterizes hydrological processes that cause lake-level variation. Journal of Hydrology: Regional Studies, 38, 100948. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejrh.2021.100948