Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 08/19/2013 - 18:08
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Drumlin Formation in Iceland

Hi Mr. Esler, I remember you're originally from Alaska, and did some research up there for college. Have you noticed many differences in how the glaciers have formed, specifically concerning the presence of drumlins or the content of the moraines? Also, how is the general soil of content in Iceland different from that in Alaska, in terms of what the silt granules are composed of. I recall there being a lot of shale up there. Have you come across areas of those fields of patches of soot and dust that are contributing to glacial melting? If so, how deep were the holes containing the soot? Also, have you tried any of the stranger traditional foods? I hear that there is a fermented shark meat that is popular with some of the people in Iceland. Best wishes, and I hope you have a safe journey home from this exciting expeidition, Jamie Orchard-Pomeroy

Tue, 08/20/2013 - 02:35

Jamie Esler

Hi Jamie!Great to hear from you. :)
To clarify, I am not originally from Alaska. I lived there for 6
summers before moving to Idaho. I am originally from Illinois. :)
Your questions are awesome. In short, I was continually reminded of
Alaska while out in Mulajokull. The glaciers are a little different
here, as they are primarily ice caps (large, continental ice sheets that
flow uniformly out in all directions from a central point) that cover
volcanoes. Mulajokull, for instance, is a tributary glacier off of the
Hofsjokull Ice Cap that covers the volcano Hofsjokull; Iceland's largest
active volcano. Alaska is primarily covered in alpine/valley glaciers,
which are constrained into valleys and typically flow in one direction:
downhill. Glacial ice in general, however, no matter if its in an ice
cap or alpine/valley glacier, forms in the same general process: burial
and metamorphosis of snow crystals over long periods of time.
Iceland is the most geologically rich and vibrant landscape I have ever
experienced in my life. The island is nearly completely covered in
volcanic lava fields or tephra/ash deposits. Not to mention, the oldest
known rocks on the island are only 17 million years old (a geologic
blink of an eye), with much of the rocks on the island dating MUCH
younger than that. Therefore, soils are typically thin and young
anywhere you go. I did get a chance to drive through a large valley
that was recently inundated by the ocean during an inter-glacial tiem
period of the Pleistocene. Once another glacial period began, and ocean
waters become locked up in glaciers again, the sea level dropped,
leaving thick depositions of marine sediments on the floors of this
valley. Needless to say, this valley is one of Iceland's richest
agricultural areas. It is near the town of Salfoss.
At Mulajokull, there was VERY LITTLE soil between the glacier and the
1920's terminal moraine. This area has only been exposed to weathering
and soil forming processes for 90-100 years. There is a particular
species of moss, some flowers, and other small grasses that manage to
take root in the rocky till of the glacial forefield.
While on the glacier with Ívar, one of the Icelandic researchers, a few
days ago I came across a large deposit of volcanic ash. It's in my
backpack now and is coming back to the classroom with me! :) Is this
the soot/ash you are referencing? Or are you referencing soot/dust from
anthropogenic sources? Let's talk more about this when I get back
because I want to make sure I understand your question better before
answering.
Ahhhh, the food... My pallet has certainly expanded a bit since I have
been here Jamie. :) And yes, I had a chance to eat some of the
fermented shark the other night. It tasted STRONGLY of ammonia, and
Anders (another of the Icelandic researchers) told me why it tastes so
strongly of ammonia. Let's just say that ammonia is not a chemical
product of the fermentation process, and I'll share the reason with you
when I get back. :) Anders also told me all about WHY fermented shark
is a delicacy here. The culture here in general is strongly founded int
he sea, fish, and the settlement of the island by ancient Vikings. Lots
to share about this over the year.
I really look forward to having you in class Jamie. See you in a few
weeks bud!
Mr. Esler