University of Alaska, Institute of Water Resources
Abstract
Comprehensive research in ecosystem functioning may logically be
undertaken in the conceptual and physical context of complete drainage
basins (watersheds or catchments). The watershed forms a fundamental,
cohesive landscape unit in terms of water movement following initial
receipt of precipitation. Water itself is a fundamental agent in energy
flux, nutrient transport, and in plant and animal life. The Caribou-Poker
Creeks Research Watershed is an interagency endeavor aimed at
understanding hydrologic and, ultimately, ecological functioning in the
subarctic taiga, the discontinuous permafrost uplands of central Alaska.
Initial work includes acquisition and analysis of data on soils, vegetation,
local climate, hydrology, and stream quality. Information
acquired in the research watershed is summarized here, and implications
for future data acquisition and research are considered
