The Arctic on Fire: The Impacts of Climate Change on Tundra Ecosystems

Description

Due to climate change, the Arctic is experiencing an increase in wildfires. It is known that wildfires are going to alter the ecosystems; however, the specific biogeochemical impacts are unknown. Natalie Baillargeon and Rhys MacArthur participated in an expedition to the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, AK last summer and begun a collaborative project investigating the impacts that wildfires have on plant composition and nutrient cycling. They are now joining us at the Hitchcock Center to share their experience and findings. Natalie Baillargeon is a second-year at Hampshire, studying environmental science and policy. Natalie’s research is investigating the impacts of wildfires on plant nutrient and nitrogen cycling in the Arctic. Rhys MacArthur is currently in her last year at Hampshire College studying Ecology and Environmental Justice. Rhys’s research is focused around the effects wildfires have on the above-ground biomass of arctic tundra ecosystems and the ecological processes that drive vegetation composition. Registration encouraged: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-arctic-on-fire-the-impacts-of-climate-change-on-tundra-ecosystems-registration-57534758010