BERA: Radar Interferometry and Edge Effects

The influence of seismic lines and other linear features can extend well into the surrounding forest, but the magnitude of this effect and the factors controlling it are poorly understood. The disruption of hydrological process by linear features is one such ‘edge effect’ of particular interest to BERA. Previous research by Caitlin Wilier (2017) in BERA showed that road-influenced flooding changed the composition and structure of peatland vegetation throughout the Lower Athabasca, but more work on this subject is required. The aim is to use radar interferometry as a technique for mapping surface deformation around peatland linear disturbances. It is expected that this technique will work very well in some situations (large mineral-filled roads with large signals and persistent scatterers) and poorly in others. Since there is a connection between peatland water dynamics and the release of carbon emissions it is of great interest to assess this dimension of land use change induced carbon releases. In addition, it provides further insight in physical and biological processes determining species composition and therefore increasing or limiting ecosystem recovery.

Faculty Supervisor:

Greg McDermid

Student:

Partner:

Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Calgary

Program: