University of Toronto Department

GLG 448 Deep River - Chalk River Field Course

Follow the following links to download course materials (pdf files).

Required

Course Manual

Hydrogeology Appendix

Methane Production Appendix

Biogeochemistry Appendix

Hydrogeology Notes

Optional

Air Photo Appendix

This field course, held in and around Deep River and the Chalk River Laboratories of Atomic Energy Canada Limited (AECL), will concentrate on the biogeochemistry of natural waters in the region. The purpose of the course is to teach students how to evaluate a range of physical, chemical, and biological processes that occur in wetlands, streams, lakes, and near-surface groundwaters. Working in small groups, students will learn how to (i) determine water table elevations and map groundwater flowpaths, (ii) appraise microbial activity in sediments through the measurement and interpretation of dissolved methane concentration profiles in porewaters, and (iii) evaluate the steady state chemical composition of a small lake with respect to the transport, chemical speciation, and biogeochemical cycling of iron and sulfur.

Although the emphasis is on field techniques, students will gain experience in chemical analyses of natural waters and computer modeling (i.e., MINEQL for water chemistry). Individual reports on each area of emphasis will be required no later than a day after the unit is completed. Background lectures, laboratory work, computer exercises, and report preparation/tutorials will generally be done in the evenings. We will also meet with AECL personnel, learn about their work, and tour the CRL site.

We will be staying at a camp with well-equipped cottages (usually coed occupancy) with full bathroom and kitchen facilities. Cooking of meals is done individually or with a group (depending on personal preferences). Food costs are extra and must be covered by individuals. There will be ample opportunity to buy groceries in Deep River. Bring rain gear, towels, comfortable work or hiking boots, rubber boots, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, field notebooks, calculator, and writing materials.

2009 Movie