|
Title: The Effects of Low Snow Pack on Streamflow in Western Washington and Implications for the
Future Author: Remy Belval Abstract: In Washington State,
approximately 70% of all annual streamflow comes
from melting snow pack during the summer. While Western Washington�s
infamously high winter rainfall allows for a generous water supply during
these months, it relies on this snowmelt for much of its water during the dry
summers. In the past decade, however, a number of low snowfall years have hit
the Cascades in Washington, having a negative impact on streamflow
in Washington rivers. Using snow pack (SNOTEL) and streamflow
(USGS) data, this paper demonstrates this correlation between the two and
analyzes the impacts global warming has had and will continue to have on
reducing the winter snow pack. These potential effects of climate change have
serious implications for the future water supply and electric generation in
Western Washington, considering that 72% of the state�s
electricity comes from hydroelectric generation. This paper looks at how
these would be affected, assuming that little is done to prevent climate
change in the long run, and looks at what Washington can do and has done in
order to prevent serious repercussions against both Washington�s
economy and the wellbeing of its citizens. Key References: Mote,
P, Salathe, E, & Hamlet, A, 2008. Has spring
snow pack declined in the Washington Cascades? Hydrology and Earth System
Sciences, 12, Retrieved March 27, 2009, from http://www.hydrol-earth-syst-sci.net/12/193/2008
Stewart, I. T., Cayan, D. R., Dettinger, M. D.:
2002. Changes in Snowmelt Runoff Timing in Western North America Under a Business
as Usual
Climate Change
Scenario. Clim. Change 62, 217-232. Washington Economic
Steering Committee and the Climate Leadership Initiative Institute for a
Sustainable Environment University of Oregon, (2007). Impacts of climate
change on Washington's Economy - A preliminary assessment of risks and
opportunities. Department of Ecology, 07-01-010, Retrieved April 1, 2009,
from http://www.ecy.wa.gov/biblio/0701010.html Return to Water Resources Projects page. |
|
|
Date:
May 2009
Student: rbelval@willamette.edu
ENVR 327: Water Resources
Instructor: Dr. Karen Arabas
http://www.willamette.edu/~karabas/courses/envr327w