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"It's Cold, but Not Cold Enough": Observing Ice and Climate Change in Gambell, Alaska, in IPY 2007–2008 and Beyond

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Abstract

  • The chapter discusses the main outcomes of 3 years (2006–2007, 2007–2008, 2008–2009) of systematic observation of ice and weather conditions in the community of Gambell (Sivuqaq) on St. Lawrence Island, Alaska. The 3-year recording of ice and weather in Gambell by local monitors was a part of a larger observation effort under the SIKU project. Observers from eight communities in Alaska and Russian Chukotka took daily notes of ice and weather around their home areas for several consecutive winters. Data from Gambell are the longest and the most comprehensive within this larger SIKU data set. Observations by local monitors reveal a very complex signal of change that often differs by season or location, even among the nearby communities. The 3-year record of ice and weather observations offers new insight to Arctic climate and ice scientists. It will also help Arctic residents document their cultural tradition, ice use, and knowledge in the time of rapid environmental and social change.

Publication Date

  • 2010

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