Optical characterization of freshwater and its distribution in the Hudson Bay

Hudson Bay is a typical freshwater dominated ecosystem owing to voluminous freshwater flux from the rivers and sea ice growth-decay cycle. Climate forcing and hydroelectric regulation of the river waters potentially modifies the freshwater distribution in Hudson Bay, with implications on the physical, biological and biogeochemical processes. To understand the implication of the modifications on these processes, it is necessary to study the spatio-temporal pattern of the freshwater distribution. Terrestrial waters are characterized by the presence of high loads of color dissolved organic matter. Therefore, light-matter interaction in the water body would serve as an effective proxy to study the river runoff distribution. This project will take the advantage of satellite remote sensing complemented by in-situ optical measurements to develop a methodology to detect the river runoff domain in Hudson Bay. Thus allowing for spatio-temporal study of river runoff distribution. This project will help in decision-making abilities for the future hydroelectric projects by Manitoba Hydro.

Faculty Supervisor:

Jens Ehn

Student:

Partner:

Université Pierre et Marie Curie

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Manitoba

Program: