The objective of this study is to obtain a basic understanding of river ice processes in the Kolyma, Indigirka and Anadyr Rivers, and nearshore sea ice processes in the Gulf of Anadyr and the East Siberian and Chukchi Seas. The aims of the study are to document 1) river ice processes such as autumn freeze up, grounding, overflows, spring break up, ice jams and flooding, 2) estuarine processes related to winter run off and freshwater input to the ocean, and 3) sea ice processes such as polynya and lead formation, ridge building, and ice motion. An observational database of the study region will be developed from remotely sensed data. The primary data source will be synthetic aperture radar (SAR) images acquired at the Alaska SAR Facility. NOAA AVHRR data acquired at the Geophysical Institute also will be used. Successful completion of the study will contribute to an improved understanding of the terrestrial and marine ice environments and their potential influence on the transport of hazardous materials from the east Siberian mainland to the Arctic Ocean.

Navy Grant N00014-94-I-0973: Scientific personnel; M. O. Jeffries, W. F. Weeks, K. Morris.