Sigma Xi Poster Competition
Mapping the effects of glacier melt on Mt. Rainier using remote sensing data
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Junior
Major
Earth and Environmental Sciences
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Haluk Cetin
Presentation Format
Poster Presentation
Abstract/Description
Mount Rainier, a stratovolcano in Washington State, is home to many large glaciers that have been a main component of the area's hydrological cycle. However, the alarmingly accelerating rate of global climate change has triggered unprecedented rates of glacier melt on the mountain. The increased glacier melt can also cause streams branching off of the mountain to change and have different effects on the ecological habitats. By using unsupervised classifications of remotely sensed data, the extent of glaciers during the month of July between the years 2005 and 2021 can be calculated. The size of streams coming off the mountain can also be determined using such data to see how the melting has affected them. This research explored the potential negative outcomes of Mt. Rainier's glacier retreat and its possible effect on the hydrology of downstream flows. It highlighted the importance of glaciers and glacier-fed streams. The diminished glacier meltwater input could potentially lead to ecological disruptions, affecting ecosystem functions. In conclusion, this project discussed the pressing need for comprehensive monitoring and management strategies to address the evolving hydrological dynamics driven by Mt. Rainier's glacier melt and its effects on local waterways in the area and branching from the mountain.
Spring Scholars Week 2024 Event
Sigma Xi Poster Competition
Mapping the effects of glacier melt on Mt. Rainier using remote sensing data
Mount Rainier, a stratovolcano in Washington State, is home to many large glaciers that have been a main component of the area's hydrological cycle. However, the alarmingly accelerating rate of global climate change has triggered unprecedented rates of glacier melt on the mountain. The increased glacier melt can also cause streams branching off of the mountain to change and have different effects on the ecological habitats. By using unsupervised classifications of remotely sensed data, the extent of glaciers during the month of July between the years 2005 and 2021 can be calculated. The size of streams coming off the mountain can also be determined using such data to see how the melting has affected them. This research explored the potential negative outcomes of Mt. Rainier's glacier retreat and its possible effect on the hydrology of downstream flows. It highlighted the importance of glaciers and glacier-fed streams. The diminished glacier meltwater input could potentially lead to ecological disruptions, affecting ecosystem functions. In conclusion, this project discussed the pressing need for comprehensive monitoring and management strategies to address the evolving hydrological dynamics driven by Mt. Rainier's glacier melt and its effects on local waterways in the area and branching from the mountain.