RESEARCH HIGHLIGHT

Notes from the Field: Maintaining Observational Networks in Beringia

October 28, 2009

Photo credit: J. Malingowski

Long-term maintenance of remote weather stations can be one of the more challenging aspects of climate research. Here, Research Engineer Bob Busey checks the operation of a radio repeater near Nome, Alaska. This high elevation tower, designed to convey data from additional weather stations, monitors wind and temperature conditions. These sensors are subjected not only to extreme temperatures and high winds, but also the plastering of rime ice from Norton Sound. If surviving the winter conditions were not difficult enough, semi-annual maintenance trips often reveal weather stations worst enemies to be curious bears and sharp-toothed foxes. A typical site visit may require wire splicing, sensor replacement, and structural repairs.  Despite the difficulty of access and upkeep, weather stations such as those maintained by the University of Alaska Fairbanks provide important long-term monitoring of climate and permafrost conditions. The weather stations on the Seward Peninsula are also used by local hunters, snow machiners, and dog mushers during the famous Iditarod race.

Link to stations: http://data.ine.uaf.edu/seward/