Research Document - 2012/054

Hydrological conditions for Atlantic salmon rivers in 2011

By D. Caissie

Abstract

This paper provides 2011 and historical information on hydrological conditions for 4 selected Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) rivers within the Maritime Provinces. Long-term mean as well as high and low flows for each river were presented. Air temperature and precipitation data were presented for 4 stations in close proximity to Atlantic salmon rivers within the Maritime Provinces. New Brunswick (NB) showed close to average precipitation in 2011, on an annual basis, although higher amounts were recorded in August. Summerside (Prince Edward Island, PEI) showed slightly lower annual precipitation in 2011. Sydney (Nova Scotia, NS) showed high precipitation in October (298 mm). All sites showed slightly higher air temperature in 2011 on an annual basis (between 0.6-1.0°C). Higher air temperatures were recorded in January and from September to December. Streamflow in 2011 was characterized by higher than normal summer flows, particularly in NB and higher than normal autumn flows in PEI. On a daily basis, spring flood was generally close to or higher than the 2-year flood for all rivers, with the exception of the Upsalquitch River (close to a 10-year flood). Daily low flows were mostly experienced in winter as summer flows were high and low flows were not severe (most minimum discharge were higher than the 2-year low flow). Long-term trends in streamflow showed few significant trends.  No trends were detected in annual discharge at all sites. No trends were detected in the annual maximum discharge; however, when looking at daily peak vs. instantaneous discharge, the flood of 2010 (Northeast Margaree River) was most likely exceptional at 875 m³/s. On a seasonal basis, no trends were detected in the magnitude and timing of spring floods and low flows in the Upsalquitch River. However some trends were observed in Southwest Miramichi River, particularly in the timing of spring floods (occurring earlier) and also in the magnitude of summer low flows (decreasing discharge). In the Northeast Margaree River a significant trend was observed in the timing of spring floods; however, the timing was also highly variable. No significant trends were detected in the Wilmot River.

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