Hidden Water Pathways: Investigating Groundwater Recharge in an Ice-Rich Proglacial Environment

Abstract ID: 3.11576
|Review Result Accepted as Talk
|Abstract registered Abstract is registered
| 2025-09-15 11:35 - 11:43 (+2min)
|Presentation Location SOWI – HS 1
Baraër, M. (1)
Charonnat, B. (1); Valence, E. (2); Tjoelker, A. (3); Masse-Dufresne, J. (1); and McKenzie, J. (2)
(1) École de Technologie Supérieure, 1100 Notre-Dame Ouest, H3E 1K3 Montreal, CA
(2) McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
(3) Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
How to cite: Baraër, M.; Charonnat, B.; Valence, E.; Tjoelker, A.; Masse-Dufresne, J.; and McKenzie, J.: Hidden Water Pathways: Investigating Groundwater Recharge in an Ice-Rich Proglacial Environment, International Mountain Conference 2025, Innsbruck, Sep 14 - 18 2025, #IMC25-3.11576, 2025.
Categories: Cryo- & Hydrosphere
Keywords: Cryohydrogeology
Categories: Cryo- & Hydrosphere
Keywords: Cryohydrogeology
Abstract

As glaciers retreat in the Canadian subarctic, many leave behind massive ice deposits within the ground, amplifying the hydrological influence of proglacial areas. This study examines groundwater recharge dynamics in the ice-rich proglacial zone of Shár Shaw Tagà (Grizzly Creek), a glacierized catchment in the St. Elias Mountains, Yukon. Using hydrometeorological monitoring, wavelet coherence analysis, and mass balance modeling, we assess the contribution of different cryospheric components to aquifer recharge. Field observations from summer 2022 reveal that springs at the study area’s outlet exhibit spatially heterogeneous flow patterns—some maintaining perennial discharge, while others respond primarily to rainfall events. Qualitative analysis and wavelet coherence results, based on pressure transducer measurements of electrical conductivity, water temperature, and water level, suggest limited or no direct connection between the springs, glaciers, and proglacial zone. A water balance model estimating seasonal and annual contributions from ice melt and precipitation indicates a significant water budget deficit at the system’s outlet. These findings highlight the crucial role of proglacial areas in subsurface water transfer, suggesting that deglaciating catchments may experience a disconnection between glacial drainage and downstream surface and shallow groundwater flows. Understanding these hidden pathways is essential for predicting hydrological changes in rapidly evolving proglacial environments.