This research theme aims at shedding light on and quantify processes that control aquifer recharge and their emergence in streams, lakes and wetlands. The effects of southern Québec’s cold and wet climate are studied in order to better understand the role of snow cover and freeze/thaw cycles in recharge processes; similar studies are being conducted in other cold regions of the world. In parallel with these projects, the impacts of deglaciation on the establishment of present hydrogeological systems and the distribution of water resources in southern Québec. In the next few years, Geotop researchers will improve our knowledge on how geomorphological context, catchment hydrology, land use and anthropic pressures influence the recharge of groundwater, its emergence in surface reservoirs, and ecosystems that depend on it.
Groundwater recharge and emergence
See also