RESTRICTED
JOINT COMMITTEE ON OCEANOGRAPHY
PACIFIC OCEANOGRAPHIC GROUP
ANNUAL REP0RTJ95I
FoeJfie Qceontgrophte Group Nanolmo, B.C. Nwmbtr 25,1991.
PfeaS PACIFIC OCEANOGRAPHIC GROUP
Nanaimo, B.C.
ANNUAL REPORT, 19 51
P.O.G. Files N 7-2 November 25, 1951 Appendix II
ANNUAL REPORT
PACIFIC OCEANOGRAPHIC GROUP
Introduction
1. The priorities assigned to the program by the Chief Oceanographer were: I. Georgia Strait.
II. Offshore.
III. Daily Seawater Observations.
IV„ Incidental.
- This rating has been followed as closely as possible. Since March, sea observations have been limited to two cruises on the Offshore project. All other sea operations have been undertaken by personnel of the Institute of Oceanography and Pacific Naval Laboratory, with direction from this Group. Our attention has been devoted to the processing and analyses of data on hand, particularly Georgia Strait, Offshore and Baynes Sound.
Research
2„ The observational phase of the Georgia Strait project was completed in January with the eleventh synoptic survey of the region. These extensive data have been processed, and the distribu tion of properties analysed by Mr. Waldie. It remains to describe and report this material. It is proposed to Issue a sories of reports dealing with the water movements and distribution of tempera ture and salinity throughout the year, and their relations to the daily seawater observations at Entrance Island and Cape Mudge. If opportunity allows an attempt will be made to solve the mechanism and dynamics of this seaway. • .' • 3. There have been two comprehensive surveys on the Off shore project under Mr. Doe which have confirmed the general struc ture of the waters observed last year but have shown considerable difference In degree. It appears that there is considerable struc ture, and significant annual variation, and it is possible that the
Offshore fishery may bo related to the latter. The surveys of this year and last, are limited to spring, summer, and autumn, and there are indications of considerable winter structure which it is planned to observe in January 1952, if shipping Is available. The present data are being processed, to be reported as data records, and des criptions of the gradient currents and structure.
4. Daily seawater observations have continued under Mr.
Hollister at 13 stations and the records for 1950 have been published
A high correlation between the deviation from the grand mean tempera ture and the catch of flatfish in the Hecate Strait area has been found and is being used to predict the fishery this year. Similar relations have been found with the Barkley Sound herring fishery, and other possibilities are being investigated. It is apparent that the backlog of data Is proving worthwhile. 5. These daily seawater observations have also been examined by D.C. McLeod under the direction of Dr. G.LC Pickard at the Institute of Oceanography at the University of British Columbia. They showed that the annual, salinity and temperature cycles at each observing point are unique. They deduced a classification of type areas based on the nature of the salinity cycle, and were able
to draw surface isotherms of the summer coastal waters which agree with those observed in bhe synoptic surveys. These findings demon strate that the daily seawater observations are indice: of the -3-
oceanographic state, and that it will be possible to establish the
relations between them.
6. "Incidental investigations and services have maintained their usual level during the year. The study of tidal and gradient currents in Loudoun Channel in connection with the loss of young herr ing has been reported. The study of Baynes Sound to determine the influence, if any, of oceanographic conditions on the spawning migra tions of flatfish, is of immediate concern and was given temporary priority over the Georgia Strait project. The work is finished and reports are being submitted. The extent of pollution from coal mine effluent in the T'Sable and Trent rivers was investigated and reported for Provincial Game Department. The reason for the anomalous depression of mean sea level at Seymour Narrows was investigated and reported for the Tidal Branch of the Hydrographic Service. 7. Miss Harper has designed a semi-micro procedure for the determination of dissolved oxygen in seawater which is suitable for
use at sea. 8. Observations on the Eraser River Estuary:project were concluded in February and the data have been typed on Multllith masters. It is hoped to issue this record by the year's end. The data are being stockpiled against the time when there is leisure or personnel to analyse and report them. 9. An exploration of the British Columbia Inlets was undertaken as a joint project. We provided C.N.A.V. "EHKOLI" and appointed the leader Dr. G.L. Pickard to'our'staff during the summer. Mr. F.G. Taylor in charge of the biological studies was ..as signed by the Biological Station. They were assisted by graduate students from the Institute, supported by a grant from National Research Council. This project has been wvlftv oor,fl.1Heration for some time, to catalogue Vh* ohBMttepleblad o.f the inlets, and passages which had never been -4-
observed oceanographically. The data are being analysed at the
Institute and will be reported as research theses.
10. Construction of the Hydraulic Model of Alberni Har bour was completed by J.B. Nuttall before he left to take an Athlone Fellowship in the United Kingdom. This model reproduces the tides and river flow and combines fresh and seawater as in nature. The project is being carried under grants from Bloedel, Stewart and Welch Ltd., and a candidate is being sought to complete the examina tions, and carry out experiments In the Model. This new and power ful approach to coastal oceanography is especially suitable for the detailed study of harbours, estuaries, and limited seaways.
Facilities
11. The allocation of the research ships oh oceanographic projects during the year was:-
C.N.A.V. "EHKOLI"
Dates Project
January 8 Incidental (PNL)
9-12 Baynes Sound " 15-20 Incidental (PNL) February 13-18 Baynes Sound. Nanoose Bay
Nodales Channe] ' May 12-August 7 _ Inlets
September 6-14 Bute-Inlet
H.M.C.S. "CEDARWOOD" January 6-10 Georgia Strait
" 11 Bute Inlet " 12-14 Institute of Oceanography -5-
H.M.C.S. "CEDARWOOP" (Cont.)
Dat< Project
January 15-20 Incidental (PNL)
" 31-February 5 Incidental (PNL)
February 6-7 Bute Inlet.
11 13-24 Georgia Strait
" 20-22 Bute Inlet
" 28-March 6 Fraser River Estuary Project
- May 4-25 Offshore
June 24-July 1 Incidental (PNL)
July 17-August 14 Offshore
12. Efforts to improve technique, facilities and equip ment have continued and are proving their value.
13. New quarters have been provided on the main floor of the residence building at the Pacific Biological Station. These include eight studies, a library, a shipping room, -titrations laboratory, stock room, draughting room, and a main office. A fire proof vault was built adjoining these quarters where the data is properly filed and readily accessible. Separation from the chemistry laboratory, which was left behind in the old building, is not a serious inconvenience. 14. i\ Seawater Analyses Laboratory has been established unddr Miss Harper where a group of Technicians determine the salinity of seawater samples from all sources, and process all data. This •'v laboratory is based on semi-automatic titration units designed by
Mr. Fjarlie and is proving to be efficient.
Liaisons 15. The Hydrographic Service loaned us 27 reversing ther- mome ters and 4 Bathythermographs which were allocated to the B.C. Inlets and the Beaufort Sea Projects. In addition C.G.S. "WM.J. STEWART" made three series of observations in the northern passages between Vancouver.Island and the Mainland. In return we made a study of the reasons for the depression of mean sea level in Canoe
Pass at Seymour Narrows.
16. The Pacific Naval Laboratory has provided technical assistance, and considerable equipment Including a photo-electric colorimeter, bathythermographs, sounding wire, and technical and scientific assistance, and makes all sailing arrangements for "EHKOLI" and "CEDhRWOOD". In return we have provided oceanographic data and monitoring service for their sea projects. 17. Messrs. Dodimead and Barber, our two senior Tech nicians, were loaned to Defence Research Board and the Hydrographic Service for the Beaufort Sea Expedition, where it is understood they contributed measurably to its success. 18. An illustrated lecture entitled "Oceanography on the Pacific Coast" was given to the University Women's Club, and the
Rotary Club.
19. Radio interviews on C.N.A.V. "EHKOLI", and in the Ocean Model Laboratory were given to the Canadian Broadcasting
Corporation.
20. A formal demonstration of the Alberni Harbour Model was given to an invited audience on Sunday, May 13.
21. Oceanographic Advisory service was given to several agencies during the year, notably:
California Solar Salt Co. regarding the practicability
of making salt in British Columbia, -7-
B.C, Electric Company regarding the installation
of a gas pipeline under Georgia Strait.
B.C. Research Council regarding' their survey of
Fraser River Water Quality. Chemistry Department at the University of British Columbia regarding suitable oceanographic researches,
Fraser River Model of the National Research Council
regarding intrusion of seawater into the Fraser
Riv.er Estuary.
Conferences
22 I attended the January meetings of the Joint
Committee on Oceanography in Ottawa, to report my stewardship of this group and receive instructions from the Chief Oceanographer.
I went on to Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution where I took part in a symposium on estuarine oceanography, and consulted with all scientists on their programs and methods. From there I went to Halifax to learn If Dr. Ford might become available to the Pacific
Coast, and to visit the Naval Research Establishment. Then I went to the Atlantic Oceanographic Group at St. Andrews to learn the programs and methods of the Chief Oceanographer. Returning to
Ottawa I had the opportunity of consulting the Fisheries Research
Board on fiscal arrangements, and Defence Research Board on the
Beaufort project. In Toronto, I visited the Meteorological Service in an attempt to establish oceanographic observations in the weather- ship on Station "Peter". While In Halifax, Toronto, and Winnipeg, I called on the physics and zoology departments of the universities to establish liaisons with the Institute of Oceanography. I record ed the details and liaisons of this trip for my own guidance -8-
23. Messrs. Wpldie and Doe attended the meetings of the
Pacific Fisheries Biologists in March, where they read a paper and took part in the proceedings.
24. During June I spent two Weeks at the U.S. Navy
Electronics Laboratory in San Diego completing the report on the
Bering and Chukchi sea expedition of 1949. From there I attended the meetings of the American Association for the Advancement of
Science in Los Angeles where I gave one address and read two papers
25. There was no attendance at the symposium on Ocean ography sponsored by the Royal Society of Canada at their June meetings, but Mr. Doe contributed a paper on the oceanographic conditions in Loudoun Channel.
26. Mr. L.ii.E. Doe went from Toronto, where he spent his annual leave, to Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution where he stayed two days interviewing several of the scientists to learn their researches and techniques.
Staff
27. There has been a considerable turn over of staff. The stenographers left to become housewives, the technicians left to further their education, and two scientists loft to take posi tions with Defence Research Board. These are being replaced by new personnel. The nominal list is:-
J.P. Tully Principal Oceanographer.
R.L.I, Fjarlie Assistant Oceanographer, Until July 31,
R.J. Waldie assistant Oceanographer.
.• D.A.E. Doe Assistant Oceanographer.
J.A. Shand Junior Oceanographer, Until May 31. -9-
G.R. Harris Junior Oceanographer, • Until January 7.
H.J. Hollister Technician (3).
E.L. Harper Technician (l).
W.W. Morgan Asst. Technician (2), Until October 20. N.J. Robs on Asst. Technician (l)-, Until Oct. 3. .' *» '. J.A. Stickland Asst. Technician (l), From Sept. 1. M.E. Elliott Stenographer (2a), Until Aug. 15. A.M. McLean Typist (l), Until July 15. B.M, Berisford Stenographer (2a), From Sept. 1.
M.A. Moore Stenographer (l), From August 1.
Sumner Season, J.B. .Nuttall June 1 to 30.
Professor G-.£j« Pickard June 15 to Sept. 15.
Publications
28. The following papers have been published,
Tully, J.P. Seasonal Cycles in the Sea. Pac. Prog. Repts. No. 85 Dec. 19 50. Hollister, H„J. Daily Seawater Observations Along the West ^oast of Vancouver Is. Pac. Prog. Repts. No. 86 April 1951. 29. The following papers have been submitted for publication Tully, J.P. Oceanographic Data of the Western Canadian Arctic Region, 1935-1937. Journ. Fish. Res. Bd. Can, Doe, L.A.E., Oceanographic Conditions in Loudoun Channel, April 1950, Journ. Fish. Res. Bdu Can, -10-
Saur, Jr., J.F.T., Tully, J.P., and LaFond, E.G. Oceanography of the Bering and Chukchi Seas, Summer 1949, Reports of U.S. Navy Elec. Laboratory.
* « Harper, E.L. Semi Micro Analyses of Dissolved Oxygen in Seawater. Analyst.
Doe, L.A.Hi. Sea Surface Temperatures, 1950-51 Pac. Prog. Repts.
Manuscript Reports .,
30. The^ollowing manuscript reports have been prepared: Demonstration, The Ocean Model Laboratory. (Anon.) , Semi-Micro Analyses of Dissolved Oxygen in Seawater. (Harper) A Preliminary Study of the Mean Sea Level Anomaly at Seymour Narrows, B.C. and the Characteristics of Flow. (Tully)
Data Record, Offshore 1936. Observations of the Seawater Temperature, Salinity, and Density on the Pacific Coast of Canada. Volume X, 1950. (Anon.)
Summary Reports
31. The following summary reports are attached:-
Offshore Project. Georgia Strait Project. Fraser River Estuary Project. B.C. Inlets Project. Daily Seawater Observations. Marine Climate. Baynes Sound Project. Alberni Harbour Model. Juan de Fuca Project. Bute Inlet Wax. Anomaly of Mean Sea Level in Seymour Narrows. Semi-M^cro Determination of Dissolved Oxygen. Oceanographic Data Records. Technical Services: Seawater Analyses Laboratory. BT Slide Smoking.
Nanaimo, B.C. John P. Tully, October 1, 1951 Oceanographer In Charge. =11-
Offshore Project
The study of the Oceanography of the Pacific Ocean west of British Columbia which was started in 1950 has been continued in 1951 with synoptic cruises in May and July - August. The oppor tunity was taken at the same time to make observations in the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Dixon Entrance, Hecate Strait, Queen Charlotte
Sound, and on the Continental Shelf west of Vancouver Island and the Queen Charlotte Islands. In addition, observations were made at two hour intervals for 36 hours in one position to determine the extent of short-term local variations, especially those due to internal waves.
Density gradients are being calculated. When this has been completed, a detailed analysis of the circulation and water structure will be undertaken. Weather data from Station "Peter" are now being received through courtesy of the Meteorological
Service and will be studied, together with those from coastal sta* tions, to determine the relation of oceanographic conditions and weather.
Surface temperatures have been described in Progress Reports of the Pacific Coast Stations, No. 88, and compared with those of 1950. In May the water was found to be warmest near the coast with a gradual decrease of temperature to seaward (aee figure). This is the most striking evidence to date that the popular notion of a warm Japan Current bathing the coast of British Columbia, and so moderating our climate, is mistaken. This conclusion is also supported by the first tentative calculation of currents which indicate a general northerly movement of water in the area at that
time. -12-
•The distribution of temperatures in August this year (see figure) is somewhat different from that of August 1950, While there was a local band of warm water off the coast it was much more extensive and less sharply defined than last year. The reason for the difference will be sought first in the weather records of the area. Its significance for the fishery might lie In a wider distri bution of warm water creatures. The cold region attributed to up-
welling along the coast was present in both years. It Is proposed that a survey be made in January or Feb ruary, 1952, to study oceanographic conditions in winter. Cruises should also be repeated in the spring and summer to continue the
study of seasonal variation in the sea.
L.A.E. Doe -13-
Georgia Strait Project Georgia Strait contains important sea fisheries of the British Columbia Coast, and is the region most subject to civic and industrial development. Oceanographic investigations have been conducted to provide a clear description of the structure, mechanism, and dynamics of the water, and their relations to the seasonal cycles of weather and land drainage. Eleven synoptic surveys of the area were made between December 1949, and February 1951. Each survey was completed in about 10 days and provides data for the description of the oceano graphic state at one time, and the series includes the whole cycle of seasonal changes. The operational phase of the project is concluded but an occasional survey might be desirable hereafter
to fill in gaps in the existing data. A survey consists of seventy or more "serial stations" strategically distributed in the area, at each of which the salinity,
* temperature, and occasional dissolved, oxygen were observed at discrete depths between the surface and the bottom, and continuous temperature measurements made by bathythermograph. The project thus far has produced more than 1000 .stations which have provided
about 12,000 salinity samples, 4000 oxygon samples and 2,000 BT
records. The salinity analysis shows that fresh water from the
Fraser, and other rivers, enters the. Strait, flows out over the sea
water and mixes with it to form a stable, readily distinguishable
brackish "upper" zone, which floats on and mixes with a "lower" zone of ocean water. Since practically all the fresh water (85$) -14- in Georgia Strait comes from the Fraser River, its influence may be traced by the dilution (lowering of salinity) of the Pacific
Ocean water. The salinity increases and the horizontal gradient becomes more gradual with distance from the river mouth. The change is not uniform but appears to develop a number of regions of relatively uniform surface salinity, separated by discontinuities which are usually marked by tide lines. In the vicinity of the river mouth the upper zone normally contains 50$ or more of fresh water constituting a region of visible river influence because of the silt contained in the water, and is
•particularly noticable along the mainland side In the southern half of the Strait. Along the Vancouver Island side and in the northern half the water is clear and saline. Beyond the region of visible river influence the isometers of fresh water tend to conform to the general shape of the basin. The gradient is sharpest across the
Strait towards Vancouver Island, and least along the Strait to the north-westward. Between the visible river Influence and Texada Island is a region of'regularly increasing salinity, and beyond this and westward of Texada, the. salinity is very nearly constant to the meeting place of the tides in the vicinity of Savary Island. The extent of these regions in the upper zone is also associated with the seasons. When the spring freshet of the Fraser River reaches flood proportions which usually occurs in June, the upper zone becomes very fresh, and muddy river water is evident over most of the Strait. It is warm, brackish, and shallow in summer when river discharge is at a maximum and the winds are light. •During the winter the river discharge is at a minimum and strong winds prevail so that the small amount of fresh water present is mixed to great depths (150-200 ft.) and the upper brackish zone is -15- not evident except in the immediate vicinity of the river mouth*
Practically all the variation of temperature', salinity, and density occur in this upper brackish zone, while the properties of the lower zone remain nearly constant throughout the' year.
The investigation and analysis of the data is continuing, and it is proposed to define the relation of structure and mechanism to the discharge of the Fraser River, arid to provide a series of charts showing type situations.
R.J. Waldie -16-
Fraser River Estuary Project This project was primarily undertaken to find a suitable discharge for Vancouver sewers that would eliminate pollution of the city beaches. Concurrently it provided one of the most detailed studies of river outflow that has ever been undertaken. The work was conducted by R.L.I. Fjarlie and associates from the Laboratories of the Institute of Oceanography in Vancouver, with assistance from the Vancouver and District Joint Sewerage and Drainage Board, and
National Research Council. Work was completed in March 1951 and the Data Record has been multilithed, and Is available for research. It was originally planned to study the data for the characteristics of estuary discharge under a grant from National Research Council. However, as Mr. Fjarlie has been transferred to Defence Research Board and no other qualified personnel were available, the data are being stockpiled. Every effort is being made to implement study of the material in the
Institute of Oceanography. When the Fraser River discharge is less than average level it flows into the sea during the ebb tide only, and forms a cloud of brackish water. During the flood tide the seawater intrudes the estuary, reversing the flow in the river and isolates the cloud of brackish water lying off the estuary. This cloud oscillates north and south with the tide, tending to progress northward along
the mainland coast.
The intrusion of seawater into the river estuary, and the
behaviour of the currents along the Vancouver foreshore, were
examined in great detail by water sampling, and dispersion of floats. Aerial surveys were made at two hour intervals throughout daylight hours of two tidal days. This is a new technique which holds -17- considerable promise if the variation in water color can .be. corre- " lated with salinity, A correlated series of direct current measure ments were made by the Hydrographic Service from which a series of tidal current charts are being prepared.
J.P. Tully -18- -
Daily Seawater Observations
Daily surface seawater temperatures along with water samples for salinity determinations continue to be collected at 13 points: Amphitrite, Cape St. James, Cape Mudge, Departure Bay,
Entrance Island, Fraser River, Ivory Island, Kains Island, Langara
Island, Nootka, Pine Island, Race Rocks and Triple Island. From time to time in the past, records have been received from seven more stations: Lasqueti Is.land, Green Island, Massett, Prince Rupert,
Port Alberni, Shannon Bay, and William Head. Observations at
Yaculta Rapids and Ladysmith Harbour were also collected this year to supplement special hydrographic and biological investigations being conducted in the surrounding areas.
These data are published annually under the title Obser vations of Seawater Temperature, Sallnity, and Density, on the
Pacific Coast of Canada of which Volume X, 1950 Is the latest. This series of publications has greatly increased the use of the data, as evinced by the numerous requests which have increased the distri bution list to 100 copies.
The.object of this program, as conceived at the time of its inception in 1934, is to provide a store of data from which investigators can evaluate the importance of seasonal variations in coastal oceanographic conditions by comparison with corresponding fluctuations in the fisheries. Both the otter trawl and herring investigations have found significant correlations in these data.
During the first nine months of 1950 the surface seawater temperatures were lower than the average by about half a degree
Fahrenheit, and about two-tenths of a degree lower than In 1949.
The salinity at all the coastal stations was lower than the average -19- by about one part per thousand of salinity, but at the oceanic stations of Cape St. James and Langara it was higher by a fraction of a part. At the end of the year the temperature and salinity approached the average. These trends reflect the climatic history of the British Columbia coast. The daily fluctuations have not been studied, but on cursory examination appear to be within normal limits. It has been fre quently remarked that there are peaks of temperature and salinity in the summer which occur once in some years, twice in some, and in rare Instances there may be three, well-defined maxima. These are mcst notable in the southern areas, becoming fewer and less con spicuous to the north. No doubt these are associated with local water movements and serve to define separate oceanographic states in the vicinity of the observations. Some studies of these phenomena are planned.
Progress Reports have been published describing all details of the observing stations in Georgia Strait and along the West Coas-t of Vancouver Island, and others describing the northern stations are planned.
H.J. Hollister -20-
B.C. Inlets Project
The purpose of the cruise was to study the oceanographic
conditions in as many as possible of the inlets of the British Columbia coast, during the period of maximum run-off, and to determine which characteristics are common to this type of water body, and which are independent of local Influences such as shape,
run-off, wind stress etc.
Two hundred and seventy hydrographic stations were occu pied at 5 mile intervals along 15 Inlets between Toba Inlet and Portland Canal. In each inlet, plankton tows were made and bottom samples taken at 10 mile Intervals, longitudinal depth sections were obtained In the unsurveyed inlets, and observations of internal
waves and meteorological conditions were made. The water structure was found to be typically estuarial in the majority of cases, there being a well marked mixing layer at 15 to 40 feet depth separating the brackish water at the surface from the deeper saline water. In the longer inlets from Rivers Inlet to the north, the deep water was generally colder and more saline (42-44°F, 33 VooS) than in the more southerly ones (44-46°F, 31 °/ooS). The coldest water was observed in Alice Arm (39.8°F)' which is one of the very few inlets with a shallow entrance sill (10 fathoms). The warmest water was at the surface in Pendrell Sound (72°F). The surface water at the heads of the inlets was usually almost fresh, though very silty, while near the mouths the salinity varied from 9 to 31 %o. A temperature minimum at depths of 60 to 150 feet in most of the inlets is believed to be due to winter cooled water being maintained at intermediate depths by the inflow of more saline deep water. The oxygen concentration was -21-
generally 40 to 60/o in the deep water, increasing to 100^ or more (in the presence of phytoplankton) near the surface. A maximum in the oxygen concentration just below the mixing layer near the heads of the inlets was frequently accompanied by a minimum at 60 to 100 feet depth. Low oxygen concentrations {&%) were observed only in Belize Inlet, which has no sill. Very marked internal waves In the main thermocline were observed in Knight and Observatory Inlets and in Wright Sound. They had amplitudes of 25 feet and In the first two cases were believed to be associated with tidal currents. The most common bottom was of light or medium grey finely divided mud which was apparently mineral in character and glacial in origin- The inlets with small fresh water inflows had brown
mud with vegetable matter. The examination of the biological collections has been commenced and in this, as in the study of the geological specimens, the main emphasis will be placed on oceanographic implications and the relations with the physical characteristics which are now being studied systematically at the Institute of Oceanography of the University of British Columbia.
G.L. Pickard
a -22-
Marine Climate
The daily observations of seawater temperature and salinity have been examined climatologically by D.C. McLeod in "The Seasonal
Variations of the Temperature and Splinity of the Surface Waters of the British Columbia Coast", an- M.A. thesis in the Institute of
Oceanography.
The annual variation in temperature follows the general climatological trend of the British Columbia coast, and is due to the accumulation of solar heat in the water. The minimum winter temperatures fall between 44° and 46°F, but the maximum summer temperatures range from 50° to 64°F. This variation of summer maxima is not related to local insolation, but is determined by the degree of shelter (bays are warmest), the presence of turbulence currents (the southern and northern passages are cold) and upwelling of ocean coastal waters from great depths due to offshore winds. This has been summarized in summer temperature contours of the B.C. coastal waters, which coincide with those observed in the oceanographic surveys•
The salinity data was examined similarly and found to fall Into three groups with respect to seasonal variation. The salinity increased to a maximum during the summer months along the west coast of Vancouver Island because the prevailing westerly winds blow the surface waters offshore and saline waters upwell from the ocean depths along the coast. Along the mainland coast the salinity decreases to a minimum during the summer when land drainage is greatest. The salinity remains fairly constant at Langara and Cape St. James, which are associated with the open ocean,, and at
Pine Island and Race Rocks which are associated with the turbulent -23- flow through the northern and southern passages. In these, the shallow surface brackish layer of water is mixed to homogeneity with the greater depths of saline water. Evaporation does not appear to be a considerable factor.
It is planned to extend this study to correlate the daily seawater observations with the oceanographic surveys so that the former will form an index to the situation occuring in the area it represents.
J.P. Tully -24-
Baynes Sound Project Oceanographic investigations were conducted to determine if the congregation of lemon soles in Fanny Bay and in the Lazo Bight at spawning time was a consequence of the oceanographic don- ditions of temperature, salinity, density, and currents, and to determine if there were gradients in these conditions which could be considered as directive factors in migration. Three synoptic surveys were made in the general area In November 1950, and in January and February 1951, providing data for the description of winter oceanographic conditions. A survey
consisted of 32 "serial" stations strategically located In the area, 12 in Baynes Sound and 20 in the Lazo Bight region, at each of which 10 or more samples were obtained from the water column and analyzed for the vertical distribution of temperature, salinity, density, and dissolved oxygen, and continuous temperature measure ment made by bathythermograph. During the February survey direct current observations at 0 and 90 feet were made at 3 locations
in the general area. The investigations and analysis of the data is now complete and a full report is to be published shortly. There is evidence of an upper zone to a depth of about 50 feet in the upper reaches of Baynes Sound, but the salinity Increases and the horizontal gradient becomes more gradual as the water mass progresses seaward. The distribution of the properties in the adjacent Lazo Bight area
is uniform throughout. The results of the current observations show very little water movement and very low velocities at all locations. In Baynes Sound the surface current varied between 0.4 and 0.7 knots, -25- while at a depth of 90 feet the value was 0.2 knots SE. In the
Lazo Bight area the surface current was approximately 0.2 knots
West. The mean value from 0 to 90 feet in this area was approxi mately 0.1 knots West.
The analysis for the concentration of dissolved oxygen shows that there is no evidence of stagnation at any locality in the entire area.
It is concluded that the region is unusually devoid of oceanographic gradients, or extremes of any kind.
R.J. Waldie 26-
Alberni Harbour Model
A distorted scale hydraulic model of Alberni Harbour was
built by J.B. Nuttall in the Ocean Model Laboratory, with assistance
from the Bloedel, Stewart and Welch Fellowship, in partial fulfil
ment of the requirements for a Master of Science degree in mechani
cal engineering at the University of British Columbia.
The model bed was moulded in cement over•a gravel fill in
a heavy wooden box. Fresh water is introduced from a head tank
over a Vee notch wier. Seawater is introduced on the flood tide,
and mixed fresh and seawater are removed through a valve mechanism,
which is controlled by a modified form of the Lord Kelvin tide
predictor, resolving the four principal tide components, A record
ing tide gauge and automatic water sampling equipment permits
comparison of the model and nature.
Construction of the model is completed, and Mr. Nuttall
has left to take up an Athlone Fellowship to continue his studies
in Great Britain. It remains to prove the model, adjust the mechanisms, and
exanine the effects of proposed industrial expansion in the area on the bed of the Somass River. This Is of concern to industry and fisheries, since the Somass is an important salmon spawning
stream. This model is a new research problem since it requires the control of fresh and seawater in a tidal system. The first phase is completed and a candidate is being sought to undertake the final examinations und^r subsidy of Bloedel, Stewart and Welch, Limited.
J.P. Tully *27-
Juan de Fuca Project Juan de Fuca' Strait is the principal seaway connecting the Strait of Georgia with the Pacific Ocean. Lt is a straight channel 80 miles long, 11 miles wide and about 100 fathoms deep.
The currents are fast and 'turbulent.
During the ebb flow the stratified waters of Georgia
Strait are mixed to near homogeneity in their turbulent passage through the San Juan Islands, and join with the waters from Puget
Sound in the head of Juan de Fuca Strait. During the flood tide ocean water enters the strait and the flow is reversed. The tidal wave requires about three hours to progress the length of the strait.
The surface flow is predominantly ebb, and there is some evidence that the bottom flow is predominantly flood, and draws water from the ocean's depth of 300 to 400 fathoms. Little or nothing is known about the tidal mechanics, depth of flow, magni tude of subsurface currents, distance of tidal excursion, or rate of exchange of water.
'This project commenced on October 1st, in C.N.A.V. • "EHKOLI", with R.H. Herlinveaux as technician-in-charge to make synoptic oceanographic observations of temperature, salinity and dissolved oxygen on a predetermined pattern of stations, during the flood and ebb tide. This required two weeks. One week was spent in a detailed study in the approaches to Victoria, and it is planned to include two weeks direct current measurements at all depths. It is proposed to. continue this five weeks cycle of observations until October 1952. -28-
The seawater samples are being analysed in the laboratory and the data stockpiled for future reference. It is hoped that personnel will be made available to analyze the data.
J.P. Tully -29
Bute Inlet Wax From time to time during the past twenty, years there has been reports of a wax floating on the surface of Bute Inlet and nearby waters, during the coldest winter months. In some years there is little or no wax, in others it is present by the ton, During the past year there ha're been fi^e cruises into the inlet to observe the phenomena, and locate the source of the material; all unsuccessful. The material was Identified as a wax which melts at 40°F, by Dr. Lyle Swain working on samples collected by local residents. Evaluation of age from isotope examination places it as being less than 500 years old. Dr. M.Y. Williams (University'of British Columbia) has taken bottom cores over the area, and finds no oil or wax in the sediments. There is nothing peculiar in one ocean ography or properties of the water. There is no proof of its origin. It is currently proposed that the wax originates in the pollen of Lodge Pole Pine (Pinus Contorta). The congealed wax is only evident when the surface water temperature is Iocs than 40°F at higher temperatures it melts and could be confused with oil slicks, which are common enough in the area due to bilge pumpings from the many fishing boats. It is proposed to continue expeditions to the inlet as opportunity offers until a large occurrence is observed, and trace the source at that time.
jeP„ Tully -30-
•Anomaly of Mean Sea Level in Seymour Narrows
Seymour Narrows is a tidal passage in Johnstone Strait
where the tidal velocities average about eight knots and reach a maximum of nearly fourteen knots during the spring tides. These have been examined by the Tidal Branch of the Hydrographic Survey, and are predicted in terms of the hydraulic head between two parts of the channel. Recently the tidal datum has been established by a precise levelling procedure, by the Topographic service, and it was noted that mean sea level is nearly half a foot lower than at
other points in Georgia Strait and on the West Coast.
The data collected by G.W. LaCroix of the Tidal Branch was examined, and it was shown that the current velocity (V) could be related to the difference in head (Zt - Zg) In the narrows by
Torricelli's Law V2 = k (Z1 - Zg) + Const. Having established that this law fitted the system, it was noted that the reference head (Z]_) where sea level is measured, is associated with currents of the order of four knots and would be lower than other places where the currents were near zero (ZQ). A method for analysing tidal data to evaluate the constants in the equation was outlined.
Further research in liaison with the Tidal Branch is anticipated.
J.P. Tully -31-
Semi-Micro Determination of Dissolved Oxygen
The Winkler determination has been adopted for use with small samples such as obtained from the Spilhaus sea sampler. The sample is drawn into a 27 ml. shell vial, 0.1 ml. reagent 1 Is added from a dropper, and the vial is closed with a one hole rubber stopper, making sure that no air is entrapped. Reagent 2 is added through- the hole and sinks rapidly to the bottom. With a finger over the hole the sample is agitated, the precipitate is allowed to settle for 10 to 15 minutes, reagent 3 is added through the stopper, and the sample reagitated. An aliquant of the solution is measured by inserting a stopper fitted with two glass tubes, (one reaching to the bottom and the other a half an inch shorter) and inverting the vial. The solution drains to the level of the shorter tube, and the remaining volume is standard ized. The iodine solution is titrated with 0.012 N sodium thio- sulphate from a 2 ml, burette graduated to 0.05 ml.
The apparatus fits in a compact, portable kit, suitable for field use, and permits an over all accuracy of one percent as compared to the standard macro procedure.
An account of the method has been submitted for publi cation.
E.L. Harper > -32-
i
Oceanographic Data Records The collection of oceanographic data on the British Columbia coastal waters by various agencies since 1927, has resulted in voluminous records. These are now stored in a modern fire-proof vault, which adjoins, and is readily accessible to the Oceanographic
Laboratories. In general the data are collected from synoptic surveys of the distribution of temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen and other properties of the water in each region. Usually the surveys have been repeated at intervals to observe the changes with tide and/or season.
Each cruise is filed as a unit and includes the original observations, the auxiliary data (tide, hydrography, current measurements, plankton etc.) and all calculations made to date.
The several cruises in each project are filed in chronological order, under the project (Alberni 1941, Georgia Strait 1951, etc.). Thus, each project in the file is a complete story. Most of the data are filed under the headings listed in Table I, but In addi tion there are records from numerous minor investigations which are filed chronologically under the region. These data are avail able to accredited investigators, but may not be removed from the laboratory, and must be kept in the vault when not in use.
In order to facilitate circulation and use of the data it is planned to publish most of the material as Data Records, each volume including the finally corrected values of temperature, salinity, density, etc. from one complete project. One volume, "Offshore, 1936" has been printed, but not generally distributed. It is expected that the Fraser River Estuary data, 1950, will be
printed this year. -33-
Bathythermograph (BT) data are collected on oceanographic surveys, biological surveys, and by Canadian Naval ships, and referred here. The BT temperature-depth trace, with its calibra tion grid is enlarged and printed photographically on cards.
Information regarding position, data and weather are recorded on the reverse side. When a BT observation Is taken coincident with an oceanographic survey station, the relevant water temperature and salinity data are also recorded on the reverse. These are filed geographically according to the latitude and longitude of the observation.
The original records of daily seawater observations of temperature and salinity are filed as separate projects under the name of the observing station, and include the pertinent weather data, and correspondence with the observer. These data are being published annually in "Observations of Seawater Temperature, Salinity and Density on the Pacific
Coast of Canada".
H.J. Hollister
-:-. -34-
TABLE I
Accumulation of Oceanographic Surveys on the 'Pacific Coast since 1927
Year of Daily Region Type Study Seawater State of Development Reference
Nootka Sound Sound 1933 Nootka Reported - Complete. Summer,
West Coast Coastal 1936 Amphitrite Partially Reported. Vancouver Is. Kains Is. Stockpiled.
Approaches to Coastal 1936-38 Amphitrite Partially Reported. Juan de Fuca Stockpiled.
Dixon Entrance Coastal 1937-38 Langara Stockpiled. Entrance Summers,
Alberni Inlet Fiord 1941 Alberni Reported. Estuary
Chatham Sd. Sound 1948 Triple Is. Stockpiled.
Georgia Strait Inland 1927-29 Reported. Sea Summers.
f! it 1932, 44, 45 Stockpiled.
tl ti 1949, 50, 51 Being Analysed.
Nodales Channel Channel 1948-51 Cape Mudge Stockpiled.
Fraser River Estuary 1950 Entrance Is.Part Reported. Estuary Fraser R. Stockpiled.
Barkley Sound Sound 1950 Amphitrite Reported. April
Offshore Ocean 1950-51 West Coast Being Analysed. "Peter"
Baynes Sound Sound 1951 Cape Mudge Reported. Winter.
B.C. Inlets Inlets 19 51 At Institute of Summer. Oceanography. -35-
Technical Services
I. Titrations Laboratory
A semi-automatic laboratory has been set up for the determination of the salinity of seawater. When in full produc tion the laboratory can utilize the services of five people who can analyze 570 samples daily. The apparatus used has been modern ized to eliminate many time consuming steps" with no decrease in accuracy and an increase in efficiency. Two sets of equipment are designed to handle( two samples at once, one with each hand., One of these is used for general work such as lighthouse seawater samples The other is considerably more accurate and used where ocean currents are to be calculated. The other three sets of equipment are also for this latter purpose but analyze only one sample at a time. Since the completion of the laboratory in May, over 11,000 titrations have been completed as follows: Project Number of Titrations
Offshore 8,960 i Lighthouse 1,800
Other investigations 600 (Herring, salmon, etc.)
11,360
After completion of the analysis the calculation of the anomaly of dynamic height is made, starting from the chlorlnity per litre (the fact determined by the analysis) and working through the salinity and the anomaly of specific volume. From the specific height anomaly, deductions may be made as to the geopotential
topography of the area under consideration. -36- .
II. BT Slide Smoking , The Bathythermograph is an oceanographic instrument which provides a graph of temperature with depth when cast overside on a sounding line from a standing or moving ship. The graph is on a specially prepared glass slide, which used to cost about three cents. During the past year, the price has increased to about thirty cents, making it worth-while to smoke the slides rather than
to buy them. Standard microscope slides are cut to the correct length, (1.75 inches) in a jig, cleaned, and smoked in a luminous gas flame, When cool they are dipped in carbon tetrachloride, and allowed to dry. Some practice is required to obtain the optimum smoke density, Two people can produce about 1000 slides per day, at a cost of
about two cents apiece.
_. E.L. Harper
i •*:•, CHATHAM Sd. OCEANOGRAPHIC INVESTIGATION Pacific Oceanographic Group 1927 - 1951
Surveys have been made in the shaded areas.
B.C. INLETS
BAYNES Sd.
GEORGIA Str. -38-
PROJECT OFFSHORE
cituiic ii, i.ei
im h c» ctimeaw
SURFACE SEAWATER TEMPERATURES (°F) AUGUST 1951 -39-
VERTICAL CROSS SECTION •-AT. g i% 5 l0|j ;p t, 49' —— " "—'— N.
iz3» \!nms
Percentage and distribution of fresh water in Georgia Strait, May 1950< -40.
124° 40'W
iCLazo o..
49°40'N
Z
MILES 44
INSTITUTE of OCEANOGRAPHY,, UNIVERSITY of BRiTiSH COLUMBIA TRACK CHART of INLET STUDY, 1951
SHIP'S TRACK -
—50°N
130 W I25°W 4ft-
STATIONS and OBSERVATIONS
1 Langara 1. Sept. 1940- II Nootka Aug. 1934- 2 Shannon Bay Dec. 1939-Sept.1942 12 C.Mudge Nov. 1936- 3 Masset Nov. I939-Sept.l942 13 Amphitrite Aug. 1934- 4 Triple 1. Oct. 1939- 14 Port Alberni Apr. I940-Sept.l942 S Green 1. Jan.iS35-Sept.l936 15 Departure B. Jan. 1914- 6 Prince Rupert Jan. 1940-Oct. 1942 16 Entrance 1. May 1936- 7 C.StJames July 1934- 17 Lodysmith Hbr. June 1937- 8 Ivory 1. July 1937- 18 Fraser R. Feb. 1927- 9 Pine 1. Jan. 1936- 19 Race Rocks Apr. 1941- 10 Kains 1. Jan. 1935- 20 William Head Jan. I92l-Mar.l94l