SUTRA model used to evaluate the development of perennial thaw zones in boreal hillslopes
Dates
Release Date
2019-01-01
Start Date
2000-01-01
End Date
2100-12-31
Publication Date
2023-09-15
Citation
Walvoord, M.A., 2019, SUTRA model used to evaluate the development of perennial thaw zones in boreal hillslopes: U.S. Geological Survey data release, https://doi.org/10.5066/P9HWCOBP.
Summary
A generalized two-dimensional flow model using an enhanced version of the SUTRA model (in press) was developed to examine active-layer dynamics and permafrost thaw development broadly applicable to boreal headwater catchments. Coupled fluid-flow and energy transport was simulated through various hillslope conditions basally bounded by permafrost and subjected to seasonal air-temperature variation with superimposed linear warming. The model domain represents a generalized 2-dimensional 100 m-long fully-saturated cross-sectional hillside that slopes downward to the left from the hill top (at elevation 5 m) to a small stream (at elevation 0 m). The data included here represent a model archive for a set of generalized simulations, including [...]
Summary
A generalized two-dimensional flow model using an enhanced version of the SUTRA model (in press) was developed to examine active-layer dynamics and permafrost thaw development broadly applicable to boreal headwater catchments. Coupled fluid-flow and energy transport was simulated through various hillslope conditions basally bounded by permafrost and subjected to seasonal air-temperature variation with superimposed linear warming. The model domain represents a generalized 2-dimensional 100 m-long fully-saturated cross-sectional hillside that slopes downward to the left from the hill top (at elevation 5 m) to a small stream (at elevation 0 m). The data included here represent a model archive for a set of generalized simulations, including a basecase and 10 variations upon the basecase. Model output includes information on seasonal changes in subsurface temperature, ice/liquid saturation conditions, and baseflow over the simulated model time duration of 100 years total. This USGS data release contains all of the input and output files for the simulations described in the associated journal article (https://doi.org/10.1088/1748-9326/aaf0cc).
This model was created to constrain rates of permafrost thaw subject to gradual ground temperature warming and corresponding magnitude and seasonality of baseflow. The development of the model input and output files included in this data release are documented in the Environmental Research Letters journal article (https://doi.org/10.1088/1748-9326/aaf0cc).
Preview Image
Image of the generalized model area and the mean average annual temperature.