A coupled approach to spatially derived parameters necessary for ecosystem modeling on the North Slope of Alaska: Appendix A. Final report, March 1, 1989--February 28, 1993

• Main Authors: Petersen, G. W., Day, R. L., Pollack, J.
• Other Authors: United States. Department of Energy.
• Format: Report
• Language: English
• Published: Pennsylvania State Univ., University Park, PA (United States). Environmental Resources Research Inst. 1993
• Subjects: Research Programs; Radioactive Materials Monitoring And Transport; 540330; Environmental Impacts 540210; Ecology; Alaska; Progress Report; Mathematical Models; 540110; Basic Studies; 54 Environmental Sciences; Ecosystems; 540310; Arctic; north slope; permafrost
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.2172/10118090; https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1280563/

This study concerned an investigation of ecosystem dynamics in several small study sites in the North Slope region of Alaska. The scope of the proposed research is to quantitatively determine spatial interrelationships between landform geometry within these study areas and such ecologically important factors as vegetation type, depth-to-permafrost, hydraulic conductivity and incoming solar radiation. Extrapolation techniques developed and terrain-related data generated as a result of this research will augment R4D Phase II goals which relate to running the General Arctic Simulac (GAS) model (and associated ecosystem models) at different locations on the North Slope. In particular, Penn State has contributed significantly to extrapolation efforts by developing techniques which can be used to initialize conditions for model input either through direct measurement (e.g., slope and aspect) and GIS-based simulation models (e.g., drainage basin characterization). As stated in the R4D Phase II Research Plan, the long-term objectives of this program are: (1) to determine effects and to develop models based on ecosystem disturbances commonly created by energy development so that appropriate, cost-effective measures can be utilized to minimize deleterious disturbances; and (2) to extend the results to other arctic and alpine areas which are important because of likely impact from energy development. It is this second long-term objective which relates most directly to Penn State`s work.