Holocene Landscape Dynamics in Northern Alaksa: Paleoceological Investigations of Peat Deposits from Former Thaw Lake Basins

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This research will analyze the pollen from selected peat cores from the tundra of Beringia, the ancient subcontinent which now includes Alaska and Northeastern Siberia. The arctic tundra is a major ecosystem which plays a significant role as a major repository of the world's carbon. Whether northern peat is still accumulating soil carbon or may actually be losing carbon is a question with important consequences for global change scenarios. This work will use plant eaology and soil studies to interpret pollen records. Pollen analysis offers ecologists a long-term perspective on vegetation change in this complex environment. Interactive activities include: teaching a course directly related to this research and introducing students to the tools and methods used to understand past environmental change. In addition, a seminar will be offered entitled Women in Prehistoric Society. This course is an exploration of the traditional biases toward gender roles in prehistory, which will enable Dr. Eisner to extend her visibility and contribution to other departments at the University of Alaska Anchorage.