Submitted by Anonymous on Sat, 07/06/2013 - 12:09
Forums
Arctic Sunlight and Microbial Interactions

Hi, I am Dan from Mendham High School. I hope the research expedition is going well. My questions are:

  1. How is the adjustment to life in Alaska going?
  2. What effects could happen if the carbon in the permafrost is released as the permafrost melts?

Thanks and Good Luck! Dan

Sat, 07/06/2013 - 15:38

Bruce Taterka

Hello Dan from MHS -
Good to hear from you! Great questions! In fact, these are the two most important questions I'm dealing with right now.
First, life on the tundra is good. The Toolik Field Station has big tents for sleeping, excellent food, electricity, hot water and a blazing internet connection. There's even a sauna, and a bonfire every Saturday. The only problem is the mosquitos, which are unimaginably abundant. But we have bug shirts and bug spray, so we manage.
Second, if the carbon in the permafrost melts, it could have a serious impact on climate change. There's twice as much C in the permafrost as in all of the atmosphere. It will take a very very long time for the permafrost to melt, but as some melts every year that means more CO2 going up into the air, which makes climate warmer. That's the main concern.
Thanks for the questions!