Principal Investigator: Kevin Lamb
The project will improve our understanding of the evolution of ice cover on large lakes using two ice models coupled to a hydrodynamic model. By comparing the results of various simulations using these models, we will improve our understanding of 1) where and how ice forms on the lake and 2) how it fragments and drifts around the lake under the action of wind.
These are important dynamics to understand because lake ice cover influences the overall health of the system such as in the development of hypoxia (low oxygen levels) and harmful algal blooms.
Geography
Lake Erie with a secondary focus on Lake Ontario and Niagara River
Bottom Line
Improve understanding of ice dynamics on large lakes and its implications for harmful algal blooms and hypoxia.