Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit, Rocky Mountain CESU

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The purpose of the Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center (NOROCK) funding opportunity is to conduct glacier recession studies in the northern Rocky Mountains. Previously, research was well-documented using maps, remote sensing, and aerial photography; however, these techniques provide only the area of the ices and do not describe the depth, mass or dynamics of accumulation and ablation nor account for inputs such as snow avalanches that add mass to a glacier. To achieve more realistic understanding of the influences on glacier mass balance, these factors must be addressed. Sperry Glacier will be used as an index glacier for intensive study and will represent other area glaciers. In order to achieve this understanding, NOROCK must analyze data to estimate seasonal and/or annual mass balance for Sperry Glacier from existing and new data from 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008. In addition, analysis must be incorporated into a draft scientific manuscript and a report summarizing 2005-2008 measurements and methods, along with recommendations for future monitoring of Sperry Glacier mass balance, must be produced. Additional measurements and analysis of Sperry Glacier mass balance and long-term changes in the glacier’s mass and volume must be conducted as necessary. NoRock conducts research in support of natural resources management in the mountains and plains of Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and Idaho. The Center produces and disseminates scientific information needed for decision-making in collaboration with Federal and State land management agencies, Native American tribes, academic institutions and organizations.Since 2001, NoRock has funded projects that advance the Center in producing strong and unbiased scientific information necessary for decision making. The Center will continue to support such projects.

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