2023: E4: PERMAFROST AND INFRASTRUCTURE SYMPOSIUM IN THE NORTHERNMOST COMMUNITY IN THE U.S.

Guests: Lorene Lynn, Howard Epstein

This podcast recording occurred during the Permafrost & Infrastructure Symposium in Northern Alaska, July 28 – August 5, 2023. Lorene Lynn, “Earth’s Janitor,” works in the field of Ecological Restoration studying soil science and permafrost, and Howard Epstein studies the recent dynamics of arctic tundra vegetation in response to changing climate and disturbances. The Symposium gave participants the opportunity to see the issues firsthand and to learn from those who design, build, repair, and live with infrastructure on thaw-susceptible soils. The concept for the event is based on a convergence research model used in Canada to pair scientific and engineering research practices with local knowledge and priorities to develop better strategies for improving Arctic infrastructure. The symposium will result in a roadmap document that addresses the permafrost-related challenges prioritized by local and regional residents and planners. Key findings will be presented to local policy makers and at Arctic science and policy forums.

Find out more about their research at:

https://uva.theopenscholar.com/epstein-ecosystem-ecology-lab/