permaNet
 

p r o d u c t s

 

(2) Permafrost distribution in the Alps

 

One of the main objectives of PermaNET was to provide a permafrost distribution map of the Alps. The map consists of two combined datasets. One dataset is the inventory of permafrost evidence and one dataset is a modelled map of the permafrost distribution.

 

The inventory shows the locations where the existence of permafrost was proven. The inventory was the basis for developing the methodology for the elaboration of the modelled permafrost map.

 

a) Inventory of permafrost evidence

The inventory is simple in structure and technical implementation and the number of parameters is small. This allows researchers, institutions, or monitoring services to register their existing data within the newly standardized scheme in a user-friendly manner. The inventory contains the following types of evidence: borehole temperature, ground surface temperature, rock fall scar, trench or construction site, surface movement, geophysical prospecting, other indirect evidence and rock glaciers.

 

The permafrost evidence inventory is described in the article:

 

E. Cremonese, S. Gruber, M. Phillips, P. Pogliotti, L. Boeckli, J. Noetzli, C. Suter, X. Bodin, A. Crepaz, A. Kellerer-Pirklbauer, K. Lang, S. Letey, V. Mair, U. Morra di Cella, L. Ravanel, C. Scapozza, R. Seppi, and A. Zischg (2011): Brief Communication: "An inventory of permafrost evidence for the European Alps". The Cryosphere, 5, 651-657.

 

The permafrost evidence inventory is implemented in a database that supports the further data collection. Everyone is invited to work with us in extending this invaluable dataset of the whole Alps. You can create an account and put your evidence data into the database.

 

The permafrost evidence inventory can be accessed here.

 

 

b) Modelled map of the permafrost distribution

The Alpine Permafrost Map shows an index of the estimated likelihood of permafrost occurrence for the entire Alps. The legend and the interpretation key provide further information and allow the map user to refine the interpretation of the color code shown on the map using more detailed information of the terrain considered. The map is intended for practitioners such as public outhorities or individuals involved in the construction and maintenance of infrastructure in mountain areas.

 

The methodology for the elaboration of the Alpine Permafrost Map is described in the article:

 

L. Boeckli, A. Brenning, S. Gruber, and J. Noetzli (2011): A statistical permafrost distribution model for the European Alps. The Cryosphere Discuss., 5, 1419-1459.

 

The Alpine Permafrost Map can be accessed here.

 

 

© PermaNet Alpine Space
Nature is changing and we want to know.