P045: Hydrologic Characterization and Modeling of a Montane Peatland, Lake Tahoe Basin, California

The proposed work will evaluate potential effects of climate change on the hydrologic regime that supports the occurrence and health of groundwater-sustained sub-alpine wetlands, also known as fens. A detailed study of two fens in distinctly different geomorphologic settings will be studied over two years. Field measurements will be used to evaluate the hydrologic flow system, including inflows and outflows such as evapotranspiration. A calibrated model that links surface water and groundwater interactions (GSFLOW) will be developed to help assess the potential impact of climate change on the hydrologic budget, water levels, and water available for fen vegetation.