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Short- and long-term impacts of human disturbances on snow-free surfaces in Antarctica

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  27 October 2009

I. B. Campbell ,
G. G. C. Claridge  and
M. R. Balks
I. B. Campbell
Affiliation:
Land & Soil Consultancy Services, 23 View Mount, Nelson, New Zealand
G. G. C. Claridge
Affiliation:
Land & Soil Consultancy Services, 23 View Mount, Nelson, New Zealand
M. R. Balks
Affiliation:
University of Waikato, Department of Earth Sciences, Private Bag 3105, Hamilton, New Zealand
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Abstract

The speed with which tracks form as a result of trampling on exposed ground surfaces in Antarctica was investigated in the McMurdo Sound and Dry Valleys regions, by a simple treading experiment. Distinct tracks formed with fewer than 20 foot passes — as measured by stone cover, surface soil exposure, and track width — and they continued to develop with increasing traffic levels. Track development was rapid and most obvious on sandy gravel soils with a pebbly desert pavement, but slower and less distinct on soils with an extensive cover of surface boulders.

The persistence of human impact from ground disturbances, which occurred up to 30 years previously, when pits were dug during field science investigations, was assessed using a range of previously defined criteria. Recently disturbed sites, where some action had been taken to restore the site immediately after disturbance, showed the least overall impact. Impacts persisted longer at sites where no restoration had been undertaken, but the remaining impact varied with factors such as exposure to wind and the age of the land surface. These results demonstrate the fragility of Antarctic soil surfaces and the terrestrial environment, as well as the long time-scales for recovery of Antarctic ground-surface disturbances.

Type
Articles
Information
Polar Record , Volume 34 , Issue 188 , January 1998 , pp. 15 - 24
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1998

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