Next Generation Ecosystem Experiment

Characterized by vast amounts of carbon stored in permafrost and a rapidly evolving landscape, the Arctic is an important focal point for the study of climate change. These are sensitive systems, yet the mechanisms responsible for those sensitivities remain poorly understood and inadequately represented in Earth System Models. The NGEE Arctic project seeks to reduce uncertainty in climate prediction by better understanding critical land-atmosphere feedbacks in terrestrial ecosystems of Alaska.

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

Summer Science in Barrow...

Any plant ecologist knows that field research requires patience and an ability to cope with changing weather conditions. Like this morning when we woke to snow and temperatures slightly below freezing. Such is summer science in Barrow, Alaska. It looked all the more frigid while driving out of town along the Arctic Ocean. Although the waters have generally been clear of ice, a shift in winds caused sea ice to move towards shore. Just visual evidence that this is a harsh, remote, and beautiful region of the world. Now, off to the field…