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Observations of the surge-type Black Rapids Glacier, Alaska, during a quiescent period, 1970-92

June 1, 1995

This report presents 23 years (1970 to 1992) of observations of Black Rapids Glacier, Alaska. Black Rapids Glacier is a surge-type glacier which most recently surged in 1936-37, and is currently in its quiescent phase. This glacier is of special interest because it is a potential hazard to the trans-Alaska oil pipeline. Ten sites on the glacier were monitored from 1972 to 1987, and three sites were monitored from 1988 to 1992. The measurement program presented here includes observations of surface mass balance, ice velocity, and surface altitude made twice each year. Additional one-time data include observations of ice thickness, previously unreported observations of the 1936-37 surge, establishment of the geodetic control monuments, and a new map of Black Rapids Glacier.

Publication Year 1995
Title Observations of the surge-type Black Rapids Glacier, Alaska, during a quiescent period, 1970-92
DOI 10.3133/ofr94512
Authors Thomas A. Heinrichs, L.R. Mayo, D.C. Trabant, R.S. March
Publication Type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Series Title Open-File Report
Series Number 94-512
Index ID ofr94512
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse