Several research groups based at Toolik Field Station are monitoring geochemical markers in the watershed. Groups work cooperatively to travel to research sites and collect water samples. Cold, rainy, foggy weather doesn't keep the researchers inside.
We trekked to stream sites in a watershed. Water is analyzed for pH, dissolved oxygen, and carbon dioxide. Researchers were precise when collecting samples, despite the cold and rain.
Soil temperature is recorded at 5 and ten centimeter depths, and depth to permafrost is measured.
Water samples are taken back to the lab for analysis.
Next stop was a river site.
Again, water was collected for analysis.
Layers of ice hang to the river banks. Green ice is clearly seen despite the foggy day.
Horsetail plants grow along the rocky bank. Horsetails are one of the first plants to appear on earth.
I'm impressed with the dedication and enthusiasm of the researchers here. This is a great group. No wonder that they are leaders in their fields.
Date
Weather Summary
Cool, rainy, foggy
Temperature
5.5ºC
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