We are examining how the coastal aquifer in the Yucatan Peninsula changed with the Classic Maya droughts to better understand future climate changes. Many coastal areas around the world rely on the aquifer for freshwater, but we have little understanding on how it reacts to climatic perturbations such as droughts and hurricanes. We are using sediment cores and instrumental monitoring within the aquatic cave systems of the Yucatan to understand forcing mechanisms. This will be used to assess hydrological models and better predict the effects of climate change.
Impact
The coastal aquifer in the eastern Yucatan Peninsula has come under increased pressure with recent development. Tourist resorts and supporting infrastructure in the Mayan Riviera has grown exponentially over the past decade impacting coastal areas in terms of waste management and usage of freshwater. However, there is little research on aquifer hydrology, and we do not understand how these impacts will affect its long-term sustainability in terms of water resources.
Student Experience
The students conduct their own fieldwork and have the opportunity to interact with explorers who are mapping the cave systems but also archaeologists and other researchers from Canada, US and Mexico who are participating in the projects.
Countries
Mexico
Impact
Research
Institutional Partner(s)
Community Partner(s)
Industry Partner(s)
Key Outcomes
Publications
Sponsorship
Federal
Sponsorship Details
NSERC Discovery Grant National Geographic Research and Exploration Grants
