The Past Thirty Years of Accomplishment and Future Direction of Canadian River-Ice Science and Engineering

During the past 30 years, major advancements have been made in understanding the physical processes of river-ice formation, growth and breakup, in developing numerical modelling tools, and in attaining knowledge of winter environments. River-ice science now has a well-established knowledge base. The papers presented at the river-ice workshops of the CGU Committee on River Ice Processes and the Environment (CRIPE) and the ice symposia of the International Association for Hydro-Environment Engineering and Research (IAHR) attest to the advancement in river-ice science and engineering knowledge that has occurred. Despite the great strides made in recent decades, opportunities remain for scientists to do fieldwork and laboratory studies that focus on areas of limited river-ice knowledge. Research needs include river-ice processes in estuaries and tidal rivers, the effects of ice on channel morphology, the hydrology of ice-covered rivers under a changing climate, and the interrelationship of ecological variables during the winter season. The practice of engineering has benefited from the improved understanding of river-ice processes and resulting improvements in numerical modelling. Greater opportunity now exists compared to 30 years ago for the application of river-ice science by civil engineers during the planning, design and operation of hydropower facilities, major water intakes, bridges and other infrastructure along ice-covered rivers. The paper reviews the considerable progress in river-ice science and engineering in Canada during the past 30 years and the implications to civil engineering, aw well as, commentaries on the anticipated direction of river-ice science and engineering during the next decade and research needs.