The influence of groundwater discharge on the runoff of an Arctic stream (Ebba River, Central Spitsbergen)

The article presents investigation of groundwater occurrence in the Ebba River catchment located in central Spitsbergen (Petuniabukta region). It was recognized that groundwater occurs there seasonally in the summer melting season when the melting of active layer take place and enable flow of groundwater. Using data from four groups of piezometers located in different parts of the valley the hydrogeological parameters that characterize this shallow aquifer (thickness of the active layer, hydraulic conductivity, groundwater level fluctuations) were recognized. Using Darcy’s low the amount of water that recharge Ebba River was calculated using field data. This calculation enabled more precise estimation of other component of Ebba River recharge (surface and overland water inflow, recharge from glaciers). These calculations were confirmed by interpretation of groundwater and surface water chemistry differentiation.