River-Ice Ecology. I: Hydrologic, Geomorphic, and Water-Quality Aspects

Abstract

River ice is an integral and important component of the flow regime in cold-regions environments. From a hydrologic perspective, it is known to produce many extremes, such as low-flows and floods, that far exceed those possible under open-water conditions. It can also significantly modify a number of other geomorphic and chemical processes that have important biological implications, such as the erosion and deposition of sediment or the production and transport of oxygen. This paper reviews our current state of knowledge in these areas at various stages of ice-cover development, including freeze-up, main winter, and breakup. Included is a comprehensive reference list, the most complete ever assembled on this subject. This manuscript also provides the context for a companion paper that discusses the biological conditions created by river ice.