How changing winter ice conditions around P.E.I. are letting the sea eat into its shores

The changing ice conditions around Prince Edward Island have become a cause for concern in recent years. Researchers have noted a significant decrease in the amount and duration of shore ice, with the last two winters experiencing lighter ice conditions than usual. This winter, while the ice was thicker, it didn’t form until February, almost six weeks later than it typically does.

Genevieve Keefe, a PhD candidate at UPEI’s School for Climate Change and Adaptation, highlighted that the past five years have seen a significant decrease in sea ice around Prince Edward Island. The ice season has decreased from an average of 10 to 15 weeks to just nine weeks in recent years. Keefe emphasized that sea ice provides a protective barrier against winter storms and erosion, and the lack of it leaves the coast exposed for an additional three months of the year.

Parks Canada has also been monitoring the changing ice conditions along P.E.I.’s North Shore, where the coastline has been impacted by winter storms. Lindsey Burke from Parks Canada noted a decreasing trend in the formation of near-shore ice within the park, with ice forming later in the season and not lasting as long throughout the winter. The ice acts as a protective barrier for the dune ecosystem and acts as a thermal blanket to the intertidal zone of the beaches.

George Karaganis, a sea ice specialist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, stated that P.E.I.’s ice season is now on average six to eight weeks shorter than it used to be. Warmer air temperatures and higher water temperatures have delayed the start of the ice season, leading to increased risk to the shoreline. Karaganis explained that the delay in ice formation exposes the coast to stronger waves caused by the intensification of storms due to warmer waters.

The Canadian Coast Guard has been busy with ice-breaking activities to assist commercial vessels reaching ports in Charlottetown and Summerside. They anticipate assisting tankers and fishing vessels as the snow crab and lobster fisheries open across Eastern Canada.

Overall, the changing ice conditions around Prince Edward Island have significant implications for coastal erosion and the protection of the shoreline. Researchers and authorities are closely monitoring the situation and taking steps to address the challenges posed by the decreasing amount and duration of shore ice.