Regions: North Slave Region
| Principal Investigator: | Gruber, Stephan (8) |
| Licence Number: | 15791 |
| Organization: | Carleton University |
| Licensed Year(s): |
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
|
| Issued: | Dec 14, 2015 |
Objective(s): To understand better how permafrost differs in temperature and chemical/physical characteristics from place to place.
Project Description: The objectives of this research project are to: 1) understanding better how permafrost differs in temperature and chemical/physical characteristics from place to place; 2) understanding how these different types of permafrost respond to change (climate/disturbance); and, 3) understanding which future changes in permafrost are likely and which are less likely based on computer simulations. The researchers will take high-quality measurements of three selected regions (forest, tundra, possible one site in transition) and randomly place 25-50 measurement sites of about 10m by 10m in each region. At each site, measure ground temperatures in several locations and describe and sample ground conditions (topography, vegetation, soil). The research team will analyse measurements statistically of variation within each site (topography, temperature, physical/chemical characteristics). The research team will also analyse how ground conditions drive permafrost conditions and commonalities and differences between regions. Computer simulations will be evaluated using computer models to predict permafrost properties and their changes, and compare results with field measurements. Differences between simulation and field measurements will be analyzed to identify settings where models are good enough to inform decisions and where models need further research and development. The research team will take advantage of other permafrost-related projects in the region (in collaboration with the Geoscience Office and the Geotechnical Survey of Canada). Access will be very low impact and rely on existing camps, helicopters, and in winter, snow machine. The field crew will not disturb wildlife and take care to avoid migrating caribou. The instrumentation involves very small battery driven data loggers (about 15 cm in length) that will be concealed at ground level in an unobtrusive container. In order to be effective, site installations must have negligible impact to the permafrost, soils and surrounding vegetation. Some stations measure air temperature, but most will leave no visible trace on the ground surface. Field visits will be brief in duration. The research team will give regular presentations at the Yellowknife Geoscience Forum, as well as other suitable venues for communication of results to local land managers and community members. The fieldwork for this study will be conducted from June 1, 2016 to September 30, 2016.
