Navigating the New Arctic: Ice-Rich Permafrost Systems

The Navigating the New Arctic: Ice Rich Permafrost Systems project will look at both landscape evolution and adaptation to change in northern Alaska as permafrost evolves in the warming climate.

Changes in the Arctic affect natural, social, and built environments. This project, funded by the National Science Foundation, looks at how changes in climate, snow, water, vegetation, disturbance, and time influence the thawing or stabilization of ground ice in northern Alaska, as well as how Arctic communities are planning for and adapting to changes in the evolving permafrost landscapes. CCHRC is part of a large team, led by the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and specifically will be looking at how residences and other buildings can adapt to changing ice-rich permafrost systems. Together with Tagiugmiullu Nunamiullu Housing Authority and the Native Village of Point Lay, CCHRC will develop a strategic approach to mitigation of the effects of changes to ice-rich permafrost systems on infrastructure.

This project will help Alaskans transition from an incremental approach of repair and stabilization to a more strategic plan for future infrastructure on the North Slope and throughout the state. CCHRC staff will be bringing findings from this project to Alaskan homeowners, students, contractors, and the broader research community through publications, presentations, and workshops.