University of Calgary - Environmental Science Research

Graduate Project

Groundwater - Surface Water Interaction and Water Quality in the Lower Elbow River, Alberta
Groundwater and surface water quality were researched by Bryer Manwell (MSc. Environmental Engineering candidate). Specifically, the research focused on the interaction between groundwater and surface water and how it affects the migration of septic effluent discharging into the river-connected alluvial aquifer at the Hamlet of Bragg Creek. Bryer characterized the zones of groundwater discharge to the Elbow River downstream of Bragg Creek through physical and chemical analyses. The purpose of the study was to determine the effectiveness of current sampling methodologies used in water quality monitoring programs throughout Canada. Current methodology involves sampling directly upstream and downstream of a potential contaminant source. If water quality impact occurs at some distance downstream the true impact of that source could be missed. Click here to access Bryer's thesis. Along with Dr. Cathy Ryan, Bryer also published a peer-reviewed article, Chlorida as an Indicator of Non-point Source Contaminant Migration in a Shallow Alluvial Aquifer, based on her research, in the Canadian Water Quality Research Journal of Canada.

Graduate Project

Each year, environmental science students at the University of Calgary, as part of ENSC 502, conduct an applied research project that involves review of background information and existing data, collection of primary data, data analysis and interpretation, preparation of a major report, and presentation of the project to the public. The project approach has historically been to subdivide the class into five to eight groups. Each group is mentored by a faculty member or professional, and works on a specific area. The ENSC 502 project themes are chosen by the ENSC faculty based on suitability for the course (i.e., interdisciplinary, suitable primary data collection possibilities), and to some extent on its relevance to the regional community.

During the 2002-03 academic year, students conducted an Elbow River Watershed Assessment: Comparing 1988-89 and 2002-03 Winter Periods. To a small extent it followed on the 1999-2000 ENSC 502 project on Water Quality Impacts by Septic Systems in Bragg Creek: Current Assessment, Alternatives, and Residents' Views. Community interest in the Elbow River watershed rose several-fold after the study on septic systems. The Elbow River supplies half of Calgary's drinking water supply and a slight degradation in water quality has been observed (Sosiak A. 1999). This has implications for water supply treatment, and possibly safety. Varied land use in the watershed includes agricultural, recreational, First Nations land, forestry, rural and hamlet residential, and others. Development pressure on the Elbow River corridor is intense and decisions should be based on sound scientific information.

For more information on previous projects go to The University of Calgary ENSC 502 Projects.