Submitted by Anonymous on Tue, 07/30/2013 - 19:58
Forums
Drumlin Formation in Iceland

Hey Mr. Esler! It's Cody Jahns. How is your beard coming along?? Also I was curious if the drumlins had any effect on the ecosystem? If so does it have a positive or negative effect?

Sat, 08/03/2013 - 08:12

Jamie Esler

Jaaaaaaahns,Nice to hear from you man. I have been waiting to reply to your
question until I have had a few days on the drumlin. We just got back
from our second day of data collection. New journal on this will be
posted later today.
Your question is great, and can be answered in a few different ways:
1.)As far as direct effects of drumlins on the surrounding ecosystem
here at Mulajokull, I have not observed any form of burrows, dens, or
immediate use of drumlins for critter habitat. I did observe that all
throughout the drumlin field there are small lakes/meltwater ponds that
have formed and I have observed Arctic geese, swans, and terns in the
water or on the shoreline. I would say at this point I do not observe
effects of drumlins that are more positive or negative on the ecosystems
when comparing them to the other glacial landforms in the ecosystem;
moraines, etc.
2.)As far as indirect or long-term effects of drumlins on ecosystems,
all you need to do is look at the cultures and societies that have
developed in the upper midwest of the United States. Areas like
Wisconsin and New York have certainly been affected by drumlins in their
agricultural techniques, road construction, city designs, etc.
Super windy today Cody. We are estimating that we between 45-50 mph
right now. Crazy!!!
Looking forward to having you in class bud,
Mr. Esler