A cooperative research effort between the University of Alaska Fairbanks and the Alaska Department of Natural Resources will begin conducting aerial surveys over the Goldstream Valley this month. The National Science Foundation funded project will focus on developing a better understanding of how permafrost is distributed in the Goldstream Valley and how its distribution affects the flow of groundwater and methane release.

Beginning February 23rd, researchers will collect airborne electromagnetic data in the Goldstream Valley using a specialized 25 foot long geophysical instrument towed beneath a small civilian helicopter. The helicopter will carry the instrument roughly 100 feet above the ground while collecting data. The Fairbanks Federal Aviation Administration is working closely with the research team to ensure public safety.

Aerial surveys will be completed by March 14th.

For more information please visit the project website at http://ine.uaf.edu/permafrost-survey
and attend the community meeting at Ivory Jacks [map] on Monday, February 22nd at 7:00PM to speak with the project researchers.
Anna Liljedahlakliljedahl@alaska.edu
Water and Environmental Research Center, UAF
Ronald Daanen
Division of Geological and Geophysical Survey, Alaska Department of Natural Resources
Abraham Emond
Division of Geological and Geophysical Survey, Alaska Department of Natural Resources