Co-supervised by:

David Didier (Regular member)

Research project description

Modelling coastal permafrost erosion in the Coppermine Delta (Nunavut) using a reduced-complexity model.

IntroductionThe Canadian Arctic has recently experienced mean coastal erosion rates of 0.5 m per year, with up to 20 m per year in specific regions. The process of both mechanical erosion and seasonal thermal erosion take place in the Arctic, increasing its erosion rates when compared to more temperate regions. The erosion of these coastlines proves drastic to Arctic communities given their use of the coastline for living and economic activities. There are few studies which have investigated Arctic coastal erosion, particularly in Canada. Thus, the future of the Arctic coastline is unable to be confidently predicted in the decades to come. ObjectivesThe project aims to validate the ArcDelRCM numerical model in the Canadian Arctic, using data from a delta in western Nunavut. This model has not been previously applied in the Canadian context. Further, this research will contribute to the small number of studies on coastal erosion in Arctic environments, providing a greater set of base data and knowledge for future research. The use of ArcDelRCM is a specific choice; it is a reduced-complexity model, meaning that the data collection and analysis needed to operate the model is reduced when compared to other hydrodynamic process-based models. Thus, this model can be used to forecast over larger temporal and spatial scales. Study sitesThe chosen study site is the Coppermine Delta, in Kugluktuk, Nunavut. This delta is where the Coppermine River empties into the Coronation Gulf, both depositing sediment and eroding the existing local shorelines. The historical Kugluktuk cemetery is directly adjacent to the coast, putting it at great risk of any future coastal erosion. Material and methodsBathymetric and hydrodynamic field data will be collected and used to operate ArcDelRCM, including data such as water level, river discharge, and wave measurements. The bathymetry data will be collected using a multibeam sonar, and an Acoustic Doppler current profiler will be used in conjunction with equipment such as the RBRsolo to characterise the water flow and physical characteristics such as temperature and water level. These data will be used in the operation of the model, and historical satellite and aerial imagery will be used in the validation of ArcDelRCM’s long-term modelling accuracy. Expected resultsThe ArcDelRCM model will be used to produce a long-term planform evolution model of the Coppermine Delta over several decades, indicating which regions of the coastline are most likely to experience notable coastal erosion. The coastline adjacent to the historical Kugluktuk cemetery is of particular concern and is expected to show erosion into the cemetery.

Research Site Coordinates