Fresh insights into river ice processes in Alaska from remote sensing, field studies, and citizen science

Authors: Arp, Chris D. University of Alaska Fairbanks; Brown, Dana N. University of Alaska Fairbanks; Engram, Melanie. University of Alaska Fairbanks; Bondurant, Allen C. University of Alaska Fairbanks; Clement, Sarah. University of Alaska Fairbanks; Scragg, Matt. University of Alaska Fairbanks; Bodony, Karin. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; Spellman, Katie V. University of Alaska Fairbanks

Video Presentation

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Abstract

Over the course of four winters, the Fresh Eyes on Ice research team has had the opportunity to explore ice-covered rivers through satellite observations, snowmachine traverses, and collaborations with observers in Alaska schools and communities. In this presentation we will share some of these findings and discoveries including:

1) methods for detection open-water zones using synthetic aperture radar,

2) long-term ice trends and patterns on the Copper River,

3) processes causing open-water zones on the Yukon and Kuskokwim rivers, and

4) observations of high sediment entrainment in ice.

Pending successful completion of March fieldwork, we'll share results hot off the ice from the Yukon and Tanana rivers as well. Discussion of these results and plans for future freshwater ice observing and education in Alaska will be encouraged.

Citation

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