Weaselhead - Elbow River Delta EarthCache
Weaselhead - Elbow River Delta
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Posted coordinates are for a couple of benches located near the
escarpment in North Glenmore Park. Sit down, enjoy the view and
study the Elbow River delta at the east end of the
Weaselhead.
The Elbow River delta has some unique features. Because it's
located in such a narrow valley, it is not the typical fan (or
triangle) shape of most river deltas. And because it is part of a
dammed reservoir it is subject to significant changes in water
level. These water level fluctuations create complicated patters of
deposition and channeling.
The sediment carried by the Elbow River drops out once it reaches
the standing waters of Glenmore Reservoir. When water levels are
low, the delta is continuing to build eastward and can be seen
stretching well out into the reservoir.
Because the Glenmore Reservoir provides clean drinking water for
approximately one-sixth of Alberta's population, it's possible that
some dredging may eventually be required.
The exposed and emergent western parts of the delta are subject to
channeling and erosion as water levels fluctuate. In spring and
summer, this area supports a mix of vegetation, including sedges,
Tufted Hairgrass, Common Mare's-tail, Common Horsetail and several
species of willow. The mud flats also serve as nesting grounds for
water birds and habitat for aquatic mammals such as muskrats.
There are approximately 5 km of interpretive trails on the north
side of the Weaselhead. These trails include closer views of the
river delta. If you decide to explore the Weaselhead area, be sure
to stick to the trails. A portion of the Weaselhead is currently
one of three areas in Calgary designated a Special Protection
Natural Environment Park. These areas are of the highest
significance in terms of biodiversity and wildlife, and are given
the highest level of protection and management.
SOURCES: Calgary's Natural Parks - Yours to Explore by Jim Foley
published by Calgary Field Naturalists' Society, 2006 and City of
Calgary website.
Logging requirement:
1. Post a picture of the Elbow River delta taken during your visit
to the posted coordinates. If you don't have a camera, describe
which features of the delta you observed in your log.
2. E-mail me your observations about the water level in the delta
on the day of your visit - you may wish to describe how much of the
vegetation is visible above the water line. Please describe the
shape and approximate size of the delta.
Click here to send
e-mail.
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