Validation of Current Ground Thermal Conditions, Alaska Highway Corridor, Yukon Canada

摘要

Fifteen boreholes, in which ground temperatures were measured between 1978 and 1981 were found in the Alaska Highway Corridor between Whitehorse and the Alaska border. Eight of these were successfully instrumented with temperature cables and loggers. The preliminary ground temperature measurements indicate that at sites where frozen conditions existed 30 years ago, permafrost generally continues to persist. Data collection for at least one year will be required to characterize the current ground thermal regime and to gain insights into how conditions are changing. Continued data collection will ensure an adequate baseline is available for the identification of environmental effects that may be associated with development within the corridor.