Why measure water quantity?
• For improved understanding. We want to know how much water there is. INAC and EC measure water quantity across the North. This includes a data collection program in the NWT, which is important both regionally and nationally in evaluating the state of one of our most significant natural resources. • For informed transboundary negotiations. The Bennett Dam in B.C. affects the flow of the Slave River. Other major rivers flowing across the NWT border are also measured to determine the effects of upstream developments. Transboundary rivers with gauging stations include the Peel, Liard, Hay, Coppermine, Thelon and Back rivers. • For river traffic. Transportation companies plan their barge trips when water levels are high enough to get over the shoals and sand bars. • For safe ferry operations. Warning of high water levels and flows at ferry crossings can be provided. • For river crossings. Design of safe bridges and culverts on roads depends on expected flows at river crossings. Pipeline s
