Low Arctic Wetland Hydrology

Abstract

Many fens occur in the low arctic of Canada, relying on rainfall and lateral inflow to maintain saturated conditions throughout the thawed season. A study in central Keewatin demonstrates that such wetlands discharge most of the snow meltwater as surface runoff during spring when the ground is frozen. In summer, evaporation and wetland outflow are maintained by rainfall and lateral inflow. Three sources of inflow are recognized; lakes, streams and late-lying snowbanks. The fens of the low arctic can be distinguished clearly in aerial photographs. This offers an easy method of mapping wetlands in the Canadian north.