Volume loss from lower Peyto Glacier, Alberta, Canada, between 1966 and 2010

• DOI: 10.3189/2014jog13j039
• Publication Date: 2013-12-04T12:39:41Z
• Authors: Laura M. Kehrl; Robert L. Hawley; Erich C. Osterberg; Dominic A. Winski; Alexander P. Lee
• Keywords: Glacier mass balance; Tidewater glacier cycle; Snout; Accumulation zone; Cirque glacier

Abstract Mass loss from mountain glaciers contributes to sea-level rise and reduces freshwater availability in glacier-fed river basins, with negative effects on hydropower generation, agriculture the health of aquatic ecosystems. In this study, we determine volume lower Peyto Glacier, Alberta, Canada, ground-penetrating radar surveys 2008–10, compare our estimate previous estimates 1966 1984. The long-term record mass-balance Glacier highlights Peyto’s importance as an ‘index’ glacier for region. We calculate a mean (3.39 ± 0.30) × 10 7 m 3 snout period 2008–10. decreased linearly 2010. If trend persists, will disappear by ~2019 have retreated ~1 km. Our results agree modelling studies, which suggest that other nearby along eastern slopes Canadian Rocky Mountains likely lose 80–90% their present-day 2100.