Analysis of Persistent Cave Ice Resources for Lava Beds National Monument
Project ID: J8W07100050
Federal Agency: National Park Service
Partner Institution: Oregon State University
Fiscal Year: 2010
Initial Funding: $5,020
Total Funding: $5,020
Project Type: Research
Project Disciplines: Physical
National Park: Lava Beds National Monument
Principal Investigator: Brook, Edward
Agreement Technical Representative: Watson, Alicia
Abstract: Lava Beds National Monument (LABE) has perhaps the most celebrated caves containing ice in the United States. Previously 33 caves in the monument were known to contain persistent ice resources. Now, many are losing or have completely lost their ice resources. This is a collaborative project to conduct an analysis of these resources, allowing LABE to better understand the rarity and resource value of persistent cave ice and improve the ability to monitor and manage these fragile cave resources. Ice core samples will be collected from priority caves, along with site and sample descriptions, including core depth and core characteristics. Various assessments of these cores will then be conducted to determine liquid conductivity and other features. Stable isotopic analysis and carbon 14 dating (of organic material) will also be conducted. A final report will be produced that summarizes the project results and provides management recommendations regarding the preservation of ice resources. The results will assist NPS, other land management agencies, and the public in developing cave ice conservation measures.
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