Glacial Contribution to Stream Flow

Figure 14 lists the annual amount of runoff from the glaciers monitored. It is interesting to note that the amount the glaciers melt varies by as much as 50% from year to year. Furthermore, the glaciers provide a greater amount of water during years when snow pack is minimal. Thus, glaciers buffer streams, lakes and wetlands from droughts.

 

Figure 14 - Percent Glacier Runoff to May-September Runoff