What is Elevation in Geography?
In geography, elevation refers to the height of a location above a fixed point, usually mean sea level. Elevation is an important aspect of geography as it influences climate, water resources, and vegetation patterns. Understanding the elevation of a place is necessary for planning and development purposes.
Basic Facts About Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Saskatoon is a city in the province of Saskatchewan, Canada. It is the largest city in the province and lies on the South Saskatchewan River. Saskatoon is known for its vibrant cultural scene, diverse population, and thriving economy. The city covers an area of 228.31 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 331,000 people as of 2021.
What is Sea Level?
Sea level refers to the average height of the ocean’s surface, measured from a fixed point on land. It is used as a reference point for measuring elevation and is typically set at zero meters. Sea level can vary due to factors such as tides, currents, and atmospheric pressure.
Calculation of Elevation Above Sea Level
To calculate the elevation of a location above sea level, the height of the location is measured relative to the sea level. This is done using various methods such as surveying, GPS, and satellite imagery. The elevation of a location can be expressed in meters or feet above sea level.
How is Elevation Measured in Saskatoon?
Elevation in Saskatoon is measured using a combination of surveying and GPS. The City of Saskatoon maintains a network of benchmark stations that are used as reference points for elevation measurements. These benchmarks are connected by a network of surveyed control points, which are used to establish the elevation of other points in the city.
Factors Affecting Elevation in Saskatoon
Factors that affect the elevation of Saskatoon include its location on the South Saskatchewan River, the presence of glacial deposits, and the underlying bedrock. The river has eroded the landscape over time, creating valleys and changing the elevation of the land. Glacial deposits left behind by retreating glaciers during the last ice age also affect the elevation of the city. The underlying bedrock in Saskatoon is made up of sedimentary rocks that have been uplifted and eroded over time.
What is the Elevation of Saskatoon City Centre?
The elevation of Saskatoon city centre is approximately 481 meters above sea level. However, the elevation can vary depending on the specific location within the city.
Elevation of Saskatoon’s Surrounding Areas
The elevation of Saskatoon’s surrounding areas varies from approximately 450 meters to 520 meters above sea level. The elevation is generally higher in the north and west of the city and lower in the south and east.
How Elevation Affects Climate in Saskatoon
Elevation plays an important role in determining the climate of Saskatoon. Higher elevations tend to be cooler than lower elevations, which can affect the temperature and precipitation patterns in the city. The elevation of Saskatoon also affects the amount of snowfall the city receives, with higher elevations receiving more snow than lower elevations.
Elevation and Water Resources in Saskatoon
The elevation of Saskatoon affects the city’s water resources. The South Saskatchewan River, which flows through the city, has a higher elevation than the surrounding land. This allows for the creation of reservoirs and water treatment plants that supply water to the city. The elevation also affects the drainage patterns of the city, with higher elevations draining into lower elevations.
Conclusion: Saskatoon’s Elevation and Geography
Saskatoon’s elevation plays an important role in its geography, influencing its climate, water resources, and vegetation patterns. Understanding the elevation of a location is essential for planning and development purposes, and Saskatoon’s elevation is carefully monitored and measured.
References and Further Reading
- City of Saskatoon – Elevation Information. (n.d.). Retrieved from
- Government of Saskatchewan – Saskatoon. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/moving-to-saskatchewan/where-to-live/saskatoon
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – Sea Level. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/sealevel.html
