River ice mechanics and processes

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This research aims to (1) contribute towards the development of design criteria for ice loads on dams through fieldwork, laboratory investigations and numerical modelling. The need is desperate because the data suggests that many Canadian dams are under-designed and therefore unstable. (2) To quantify the concentration, particle size distribution, processes and, particularly, the heat content frazil ice on the St. Lawrence River. The need is immediate since frazil ice is increasing as the climate warms and guidelines are required to dictate ship modifications before the loss of navigation control (that is now occurring by ships whose intakes are being blocked by frazil) leads to a catastrophic incident. (3) To continue quantifying the cryological continuum of watersheds. We have shown that dynamic ice processes (including ice dams) play the dominant role in water levels, flow rates, quality and habitat in small stream. These processes need further quantifying as our climate changes since their impacts on road, bridge and hydro-electric power efficiency are significant.