Climate Change Impacts Monitoring of Shoreline Systems in Gulf Islands National Park Reserve

The intern’s study will establish a network to monitor coastal erosion and shoreline changes related to erosive water levels and longer-term trends (e.g. sea level rise, storm surges) associated with climate variability and change in Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. Climate data, water levels, air photos and cross-shore profiles are crucial indicators of coastal responses to climate change yet their availability and continuity are sparse in some regions. The specific objectives of this research project are: 1) to establish a monitoring network to assess the dynamics and future vulnerability of shoreline systems to geomorphic changes within Gulf Islands National Park Reserve; 2) to identify regional historical and modern trends in oceanographic variables; and 3) to provide park-specific management and planning recommendations for ongoing and potential future climate change impacts within the park.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dr. Ian J. Walker

Student:

Rebecca Cumming

Partner:

Parks Canada

Discipline:

Geography / Geology / Earth science

Sector:

Environmental industry

University:

University of Victoria