Cryospheric and Polar Processes Division
Permafrost research
In the cold regions of the earth, organic material is often frozen into the soil before it has a chance to fully decay. Observations show that this frozen soil layer, known as permafrost, is beginning to thaw in many high-latitude regions. CIRES is interested in learning more about how permafrost thaw will affect local hydrology and soil stability, as well as increase emissions of methane and other trace gases.
