Near-surface ground ice in sediments of the Mackenzie Delta region, N.W.T.
Principal Investigator: Kokelj, Steven V (23)
Licence Number: 13170
Organization: Carleton University - Department of Geography and Environmental Studies
Licensed Year(s): 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 2000 1999
Issued: Apr 03, 2001
Project Team: Doug Joe

Objective(s): In permafrost terrain, an ice-rich zone is frequently found just below the base of the active layer (Mackay, 1972; Burn, 1988). The ice-rich zone is significant because it is widespread in permafrost areas and may act as a significant hydrological reservoir (Hughes, 1974). It is close to the base of the active layer, therefore human disturbance or climate warming which may lead to thawing could result in local subsidence and terrain instability. The proposed research will investigate the physical and chemical characteristics of the near-surface ice-rich zone in sediments of the Mackenzie Delta area. The goals of the research are to: (1) investigate the development through time of near-surface ground ice; (2) measure its spatial variability and to relate its distribution with vegetation type; and (3) investigate the geochemical characteristics of this near-surface ice-rich zone.

Project Description: This study investigates the distribution and amount of near-surface ground ice in sediments of the Mackenzie Delta area. The research team will consist of Steve Kokelj (Carleton University - principle researcher) and Doug Joe (Inuvik). The proposed fieldwork will begin in Inuvik in April, with the main part of the field work being carried out from 30 July to 20 August. In April, the research team will access sites near Inuvik to revisit sites cored in December 2000, and obtain a second core at each of these sites (to determine moisture and nutrient migration within the active layer during the winter season). From 30 July to 20 August, shallow permafrost cores (2 m deep) will be obtained from Navy Road and from sites in the Mackenzie Delta. Permafrost core samples will be sectioned in the field and returned to the Aurora Research Institute where moisture and ground ice contents will be determined, to provide information about the amount of subsidence that can be expected if these sediments were thawed. Pore water will be extracted for geochemical analysis. In addition, relations may be established between ground ice contents and vegetation communities in the Mackenzie Delta. Tree slices will be obtained by sectioning 5 spruce trees from 3 different spruce communities in the Inuvik region of the Delta. An additional 5 spruce trees will be sectioned in the southern Delta near Homestretch Channel where the trees are being tilted by the development of ice wedges. Two temporary camps (2-3 day duration) will be established during the summer, on Homestretch Channel and near Penny Channel. The town of Inuvik will be used as the primary base of operations.