Aquifer-Peatland Hydrological Connectivity and Controlling Factors in Boreal Peatlands

The conditions in which groundwater inflow occurs boreal peatlands and its contribution to peatland water balance are still poorly understood. objectives of this research were quantify the hydrological connectivity between a surficial aquifer peatland, identify controlling factors north-central Quebec (Canada). instrumented with piezometers levels monitored during two growing seasons. Hydraulic conductivities measured on peat cores situ, inflows outflows calculated using Darcy equation. budgets simulated for steady-state flow model verify hypotheses, unmeasured flows explore recharge scenarios leading changes connectivity. have contrasted budgets, representing largest (78%) subsurface runoff outflow (85%) smallest catchment area (Misask). (Cheinu) is also located downgradient within regional watershed. Its dominated by (56%) mostly towards (74%). precipitation excess reduction would not affect their heads markedly (<10 cm). However, could induce larger modifications area. dominating functions thus at sites, it hypothesized that table depths thresholds triggering storage, transmission different. Although further studies remain be done understand how change through time, ultimately what long-term impacts changing climate hydrology, vegetation carbon accumulation, work shows understanding hydrology requires consider beyond limits.