Examining the Effects of Climate Extremes on the Water Supply-Demand System of Two British Columbia Watersheds:
Ahmad Amer, MLWS 2022
An analysis of the water supply-demand system was examined to better understand the effects of climate extremes on the Chapman Creek Watershed in the Sunshine Coast and on the Norrish Creek Watershed in the Abbotsford-Mission region. Both regions are facing a challenge where the population is continuing to increase, and climatic changes are becoming more unpredictable. Precipitation, temperature, and discharge data was obtained and used to identify climatic trends for both watersheds. These trends are a direct result of climate change where both Sunshine Coast and Abbotsford-Mission region are experiencing a decrease in summer precipitation, an increase in extreme temperatures, unpredictable changes in streamflow during extreme events, and a decrease in snowpack. There is clear evidence of a shift in earlier snowmelt and earlier spring freshet. These changes and their implications influence the water consumption and the water supply for both watersheds. Both systems are noticing an increased demand for water during the summer where precipitation is low, and temperatures are high. As climatic models continue to predict future trends, both watersheds will require careful management in order to supply enough water and to meet the water demand during peak seasons. Emphasis should be placed on conservation management techniques as this is the most feasible and cost-effective option. It will be crucial to understand the impacts of climate change on the water supply and demand of these smaller communities which may provide future insight into managing larger systems.