Synopsis of Hydrologic Research under MAGS

Abstract

This volume of the book gives detailed accounts of the principal atmospheric processes investigated under the Mackenzie GEWEX Study (MAGS). These processes are of paramount importance to the weather and climate of northwestern North America, the understanding of which is of direct relevance to all circumpolar cold regions. There are close links between the atmosphere, hydrosphere and cryosphere through the energy and water cycles, and many connections through forcings, feedbacks and storage mechanisms that lead to amplification or acceleration, and suppression or delay, of atmospheric and hydrologic events. Volume II of the book, entitled “Hydrologic Processes of a Cold Region: the Mackenzie GEWEX Study Experience” provides a comprehensive survey of the land surface and hydrologic processes that occur in the Mackenzie River Basin (MRB) and its adjoining areas. Under MAGS, new concepts, models and field methods have been developed that greatly improved understanding and representation of cold region hydrologic processes. These results are summarized in this synopsis of MAGS hydrologic research. All chapters that appear in Volume II are listed in the Appendix.