Stratigraphy of the Western Arctic Gateway-SWAG

Abstract

As carbon dioxide levels begin to rise and temperatures continue to increase due to human impacts, we are beginning to see areas in the Arctic and the Antarctic becoming more accessible with reduced sea ice cover. The Northwest Passage is becoming increasingly important due to its increased interest for ship navigation and mining operations. Understanding how deglaciation occurred in these areas will give us better insight on how future warming trends will affect the Northwest Passage.  A sediment core was recently recovered from M'Clure Strait, western Northwest Passage. Investigation of this core using litho- and bio-stratigraphy and benthic microfossils as a proxy for past environmental conditions will give us a better understanding of how and when deglaciation occurred and the response of the marine system. This study focuses on the litho- and biostratigraphic descriptions of the core to explain the timing and style of glacial retreat in the region.

Discipline: Biological Sciences

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Mark Furze