NGEE Arctic
Next-Generation Ecosystem Experiments
Advancing the predictive power of Earth system models through understanding
of the structure and function of Arctic terrestrial ecosystems
Unfrozen Permafrost Presence in Shrub-Dominated Landscapes
Unfrozen Permafrost Presence in Shrub-Dominated Landscapes
November 27th, 2019
Field observations and model simulations confirm the presence of unfrozen permafrost in shrub-dominated landscapes.
The Objective:
- Couple surface and subsurface thermal-hydrology in permafrost landscapes and simulate the timing and magnitude of talik formation associated with shrubs and snow.
New Science:
- Shrubs, especially tall shrubs, trap snow and provide an insulating layer that keeps ground warmer than the surrounding landscape.
- Increases in groundwater discharge due to talik formation can contribute to the observed increases in Arctic river discharge during the winter and spring snowmelt period.
The Impact:
- Numerical experiments explain that the transition from continuous to discontinuous permafrost can happen quickly, and create new pathways for water flow in hillslope environments.