9:00 am - 10:00 am
Event details: A graduate exam seminar is a presentation of the student’s final research project for their degree.
This is an ALES MSc Final Exam Seminar by Jennifer Hall. This seminar is open to the general public to attend.
Zoom Link: https://ualberta-ca.zoom.us/j/95156000059?pwd=dWtkSllMVWtIK3kyS200ZDV4QkhMQT09
MSc with Drs. Axel Anderson and Uldis Silins.
Thesis Topic: Understanding the risk of unpaved roads on drinking water treatability by assessing sediment erosion across Canada
Abstract:
Forest harvesting, wildfire suppression, energy development, and recreation all use unpaved roads. As a result, many roads in drinking watersheds are potential sources of fine (<63 µm) sediment. This study 1) assessed road erosion across Canada using road surveys and rainfall simulations, and 2) validated two erosion models, the Forest and Rage Evaluation Program (FREP) and the Road Erosion and Deliver Index (READI), using road assessment data and rainfall simulations. These models estimate sediment yields based on road attributes providing insight to road erosion risk. Erosion risk was influenced by road surface conditions, road slope, and traffic. Sediment yields predominantly consisted of particles ≤ 63 µm which poses a threat to drinking water treatability. Fine sediment yields were related to traffic and road surface conditions. Road erosion and modeling tools assessments are valuable for understanding impacts of road management practices on water quality and providing insights for road managers.
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