Permafrost mapping: a review

Abstract

Permafrost maps have developed over the last century from small line drawings showing the outer limits of the areas within which perennially frozen ground was known or supposed to exist, to large scale, multi-sheet, multi-faceted, complex earth-science documents. These show, in considerable detail, the estimated distribution of frozen ground, in terms of its spatial continuity, thickness, ground temperature and ground ice content. Other related geo-environmental information is commonly included along with the permafrost attributes. The key geocryological issues in permafrost mapping comprise definition, purpose, classification, data acquisition, and data storage and processing. The principal cartographic issues relate to map design, legend development and map production. The recent development of geographic information software (GIS) suitable for use on a desk-top computer allows the geocryologist to undertake many map compilation and production tasks directly. GIS software also allows the map compiler or map user to manipulate the data, layer by layer, and so create specialized maps for specific purposes. Computer storage and processing of permafrost data allows large volumes of data to be handled and, when combined with modelling techniques, allows these large volumes of data to be used in the compilation of maps. Integration of modelling techniques with GIS is a powerful tool for assessing the response of permafrost to a changing climate. Other research directions are noted.