Spatial Cluster

Flooding occurs when a body of water takes on more volume than it typically confines, leading to the excess being redirected over the surrounding landscape. In Nova Scotia, extreme precipitation events, melting of snowpack, river ice jams, tidal events, and storm surges, or a combination of factors may result in flooding (GOC, 2010). While flooding is a natural phenomenon in Nova Scotia, flooding becomes an issue when it damages property, infrastructure, or negatively impacts human lives. 

Floods are the most commonly occurring natural disaster in Canada and pose a threat to critical infrastructure, properties, and in extreme cases, can even put lives at risk (PSC, 2021). The most devastating floods in Nova Scotia typically result from a combination of factors, such as the torrential rains and storm surges accompanying extreme weather events which threaten both inland and coastal areas (Warren & Lemmen, 2014).  Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and severity of these events, while sea level rise will further exacerbate effects on coastal communities, which comprise 70% of Nova Scotia’s population (Fisheries and Aquaculture, 2009). 

Casey Doucet 

I am a second-year master’s student in the Applied Science in Environmental Engineering program at Dalhousie University. My research aims to identify factors that may be contributing to water quality changes in Halifax-area lakes. I also belong to the Aquatic Systems Professional and Industrial training for the Restoration Economy (ASPIRE) program at Dalhousie. Prior to my graduate studies, I completed my BSc with Honours in Environmental Science at Mount Allison University, where I also worked as a research technician in the Environmental Change and Aquatic Biomonitoring (ECAB) Lab and contributed to microfiber and microplastic research.  

I am in the Interdisciplinary PhD program at Dalhousie University who studies how cities could be better designed to support wildlife and meet biodiversity conservation goals. Originally, I was introduced to GIS because someone was offering free pizza as a part of a one day crash course. Over 10 years later, I'm still hooked, using GIS in both educational and professional settings, though I still won't say no to free pizza.

Nicolas Beauchamp 

I am in my 5th year at Dalhousie University studying both Earth Science and ESS (Environment, Sustainability, and Society). My current academic goals include completing my undergraduate degree with Dalhousie’s certificate in GIS, and am planning out my route towards a Masters. When not studying, I am on nature walks or browsing through local record shops.