IGEA ‘22 is officially taking over the blog! This year’s class consists of 10 undergraduate students from both the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Smith College excited to pursue this journey into the Arctic. Similar to previous IGEA teams, we are also interested in studying beaded streams. Beaded streams are regularly spaced elliptical pools connected by narrow channel runs that are found in permafrost regions such as Alaska. Not much is known about their distribution or morphology so our team has ambitiously decided to study them with the hopes of being able to contribute to this realm of science. 

After 27 articles, 7 hypotheses, and multiple revisions with the team, our science leads Morgan and Emma have put together a science plan that we are all very excited for. Taking into account logistics such as the amount of time we are willing to spend in the field, how far we can travel, and permits in addition to personal research interests of individual members, we were able to narrow down our plan to focus on 3 null hypotheses.

1. The active layer depth does not change between stream classification 
2. The active layer depth does not determine source signature 
3. Stream classification does not determine source signature 

The first null hypothesis: the active layer depth does not differ between stream classification and requires data to be collected on active layer depth of the stream and surrounding area as well as water velocity and temperature. Our goal for this hypothesis is to find 3 different active layer depths over 3 classifications of beaded streams. We have defined success in the field as getting active layer measurements for 20 pools (n=20 pools) for each of the 3 classifications.

Our second hypothesis focuses on the relationship between active layer depth and source signature. By looking at water’s isotopes, we can determine its source signature and learn where the water came from, like from ground water, snow melt, etc. For this hypothesis, we plan to collect stream water samples, measure active layer depths, water velocity and temperature. Our goal is to successfully measure active layer depth and collect water samples along the streams’ reach (span of the stream). For this hypothesis, we defined success in the field as collecting the proper amount of water samples from desired locations and active layer depths from those locations.

Our third null hypothesis is that stream classification does not determine the source signature. Similar to the last two hypotheses, we need to collect stream water samples, water velocity and temperature data. Our goal is to successfully collect water samples of 3 classifications of streams with 2 to 3 reaches each. Success for this hypothesis is defined as being able to collect water samples of elliptical and alluvial streams with 2-3 reaches each.

Outside of science, we were able to gain some essential skills to get ready to work in Arctic conditions. After all, the biggest goal is for everyone to make it back safely. Two weeks ago, we had a fun-filled weekend of Arctic Field Training with John Stoddard where we learned how to set up a weatherproof tent, build a bear fence, tackle bear encounters, layer for long days of arctic fieldwork and so many other safety skills. In addition to coordinating the training, our safety leads Elizabeth, Stella, and Jackson also organized a delicious lunch for everyone from the Works Cafe for both days (Oskar highly recommends their chocolate peanut butter smoothie). 

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As we are nearing the end of the semester, the entire team is making big pushes to be ready to send our first group to Alaska in T-35 days! There is still so much to get done and all this is just the beginning. We have so much planned for this year including a documentary and research paper so stay tuned!