Will climate change affect hyporheic processes in arctic streams?
Overview: We are investigating the responses of arctic tundra stream geomorphology, hyporheic zone hydrology, and biogeochemical cycling to climate change. In particular, we expect that hyporehic exchange dynamics in tundra streams are controlled by 1) channel features (pools, riffles, etc.), and 2) depth of thaw beneath the stream channel. Altered arctic climate will likely alter stream flows and therefore the fluvial geomorphic structure of stream channels. We hypothesize that the potential for hyporheic exchange increases as the climate warms and active layers deepen. At the same time, increased exchange of water between the stream and the hyporheic zone could be driving more or different types of hyporheic biogeochemical cycling, which may alter stream nutrient budgets.
