Arcticulates: Oil... Alaska's Liquid Gold

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:04:07 PST

November 14, 2009

Arcticulates �

Focusing on Alaska's Beauty

Author: K. Fields

Oil... Alaska's Liquid Gold?

There are several things in Alaska that are internationally known... Which are: the massive amount of land, that's magnified by it's pristine natural beauty and various rugged terrains, it's abundant varieties of wildlife, it's extreme weather, and also it's plentiful natural resources.

Oil is one of Alaska's major natural resources, along with coal, gold, natural gas... etc... The famous Oil pipeline, built in 1977 and is one of the world's largest pipeline systems, snakes across 800 miles of Alaska's rugged terrain, and is the subject of many written articles, public news media fodder, and one of the most controversial subjects always brought up in most discussions pertaining to preserving the natural beauty that surrounds us..

Oil Pipeline Snaking across Alaska's Tundra

Photo by: Steve Fields

Now... whenever I think of a big pipe I picture a ugly rusty metal pipe. But this isn't what the oil pipe looks like... even after 32 years. Don't get me wrong, it is a metal pipe, but considering it's size, it really doesn't look bad at all.... Or maybe I am just used to seeing it all the time, so it is starting to blend in as part of the scenery to me.

Oil Pipeline... Above and Underground

Photo by: Steve Fields

The Pipe itself is 4 foot in diameter, and 800 miles long. It starts in Prudhoe Bay, and ends in Valdez. Twisting and turning through every kind of rough and rugged terrain possible. It is mostly above ground and is 3.75 inches thick. The pipe that goes underground in some areas like across roads is 2-4 inches depending on the area.

This Pipeline has transported more then 15 billion barrels of oil across Alaska with nary a problem, it has it's usual wear and tear upkeep, but considering it's length and the extreme temperatures and terrain, it has done remarkably well for a man-made oil transporter.

Oil Pipeline Crossing Stream

Photo by: Steve Fields

In 1977 it cost around 8 billion dollars to build this pipeline, I can't even imagine how much it would cost to build a similar one now, or even if it would be built now, what with all the environment concerns and permits that would be required now which were not in existence 30 years ago.

Along with the rugged and unpredictable terrain comes the rugged and unpredictable weather that Alaska is well known for, so the pipeline planners had to include ways around that, for instance each 40 ft. length of pipe expands .031 inches with each 10� F rise in temperature and contracts the same distance with each 10�F drop in temperature.

Oil Pipeline Crossing Through the Mountains

Photo by: Dwight Phillips

Since I live in Alaska, I know about the ground shifting that practically comes with every season change, and our many earth tremors and quakes, so that ground movement also had to be configured in the plans on laying the pipeline. So the pipeline was built on above ground supports so that it can shift laterally, since it doesn't expand lengthwise which explains why the pipeline was built in zig-zags instead of straight lines.

Another interesting aspect that the planners had to deal with is Permafrost. Permafrost is a unique phenomenon of living in extreme cold environments, it is any soil or rock that has been continually below 32 degrees for 2 years or more. The interesting thing about areas with permafrost is it can also cause this list of problems.

Northern Lights over the Oil Pipeline

Photo by: Steve Fields

Some Permafrost Problems Frost Heaving: When the active layer freezes, ice forms, pushing the ground surface upward.

Frost-Jacking: When heaving occurs as described above, if a structure imbedded in the ground is not properly anchored to resist such movement, the structure will be forced upward along with the ground surface. In most cases, the structure does not return to its original position when the active layer thaws during the following summer. The net upward movement is called "jacking." This phenomenon can occur whenever there is seasonal freezing and thawing of the active layer, and is not limited to permafrost areas.

Thaw settlement: Structures founded on "thaw-unstable" permafrost may settle if the large amounts of ice in the thaw-unstable permafrost are melted. Melting is typically caused by heat from the structure or changes to the natural thermal conditions.

Excerpt from: Alyeska-pipe-- Pipeline facts

The Largest Oil Pipe Bridge Across the Tanana River

Photo by: K Fields

Alaska's wildlife was also a concern that had to be dealt with so that the animals would not be harmed during the building and the years of use. At the time the pipeline was built there were 170 different bird species, 34 different fish species, and a huge variety of smaller animals like: fox, squirrels, coyote, wolf, beaver, wolverine, marten, ermine/weasel, etc.

Lighted Areas Around Oil Pipeline Pumps

Photo by: Steve Fields

There is also the larger animals that live across the Alaska terrain that had to be accounted for like; Moose, Caribou Herds, Black Bear, Grizzly Bear, Polar Bear, and Buffalo.

On the main animal crossings that were discovered in the research of which there were approximately 579, it was required that the pipe be at least 10 feet off the ground, so that the larger animals wouldn't be hindered in any way from their normal meandering activities.

4 Foot Diameter Oil Pipeline Weaving Through the Mountains

Photo by: Steve Fields

The Alaska Oil Pipeline... sometimes referred to as Alaska's liquid gold transporter is an awesome feat built by some amazing engineers, scientists, biologists and zoologists . They really put a lot of work into the study of all the intricate details our beautiful State, and it's wildlife and vegetation, in order to build this oil pipeline that in over 30 years later... is still pumping crude oil across Alaska. My hat's off to them!

Later...
K Fields

Arcticulates.Org

ARCTICULATES: Whooo Loves Owls?

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 19:04:12 PDT

September 23, 2009

Arcticulates ��

Focusing on Alaska's Beauty

Author: K. Fields

Whooo Loves Owls?

Alaska has ten species of Owls, the Great Horned Owl is one of them. �These Owls are amazingly huge, �one flew in front of my car the other day and it's wingspan covered my whole windshield. �Whenever I hear Owl stories I always seem to picture the cute little Owls that they have on TV and Disney movies, so it was really surprising to see how big they really are!

The Great Horned Owl of Alaska

Photo by Richard Mitchell

In answer to whooo loves Owls? �Is I sure do, they are such an interesting looking bird. The almost don't even look like a bird with their roundish shapes and great, big, giant eyes. �It also seems like they are able to turn their heads all the way around their bodies. �

The Great Horned Owl's official name is BuBo Virginianus. �They can grow up to 25 inches in height, and are identified by the distinguishing tufts of feathers on each side of their heads causing a horned appearance, they are also identified by their�white feathered throat some call a bib. But to me it looks like a mustache.

Great Horned Owl perched on the Edge of the Nest

Photo by Richard Mitchell

Their feathers range in browns, creams and black colors which help them to blend into the wilderness around them. � You really have to focus hard on a tree in order to see them and their nests, they are experts at blending in..

They have large heads which are prominent when they fly, and huge yellow eyes. �They seem to be wearing glasses,because of the way the feathers and colors lay in circular effects around the eyes.

Standing Guard Over the Owlets in the Nest

Photo by Richard Mitchell

The Great Horned Owls share the responsibilities of rising up the young'ns, the male first entices the female to mate by giving her gifts, like a mouse. �She will sit with the eggs in the nest while he hunts for food for both of them.�They usually produce up to 3 eggs.

When the Owlets hatch they are blind and have a thin covering of downy feathers. �The parent Owls will bring them food about every 20 minutes�during the night hours. �As the babies grow older, their feathers grow heavier, and�they are given bigger items to eat, and this is when they learn to tear apart their food. �They eventually leave the nest to catch their own food, but will live in their parents nest for several months before they venture off on their own.

Fuzzy Great Horned Owlet Peeking From the Nest

Photo by Richard Mitchell

The Great Horned Owl is nocturnal but can be seen in broad daylight often. �They hunt mostly during the twilight hours or just before dawn,when most nocturnal animals are hurrying off to their dens and nesting places to sleep and not paying attention..

They can build giant nests in tall trees or clefts in the rocky sides of bluffs. Using lots of small sticks and branches as you can see by these photos. �The nests themselves are pieces of natural art. It's amazing how they can take small sticks and plants and weave them into this large sturdy nest, and they line the nests with their own down feathers and mosses found in the wooded areas.

Two Great Horned Owlet Fuzzballs Waking Up!

Photo by Richard Mitchell

These Owls are big enough to carry away small domesticated dogs and cats, and it happens often in Alaska, they will swoop down right in front of you and lift up the animal and fly off. �They have extremely good eyesight which is used for spotting a small animal, including the white Ermines and Snowshoe Hare, which are nearly impossible to see against�white snow, and they have no problem seeing in the dark!

Besides their very unique appearances, Owls as many other animals have unusual �legends and myths attached to them,�for instance: Wise, Noble, and Harbingers of Death.

Almost Camouflaged in the trees

Photo by Richard Mitchell

These beautiful birds also have a habit of adopting a nest from a previous bird tenant, like the Eagle, and they also like to nest in a natural hollow of a large tree. �The usually hunt in the open fields, and near the edges of the wooded areas.

In the night season, you can hear the Great-Horned Owls hooting.. they have unique hoot sound that seems to have a rhythm of 5�hoots in various ways.. Like hoo-hoo, hoo, hoo-hoo. �Or a hoo, hoo-hoo, hoo, hoo. �Is a deep hollow sound �that resonates through the quiet darkness. �Both the male and female sing!

Baby Great Horned Owlet Calling "Mom... I'm hungry"

�Photo by Richard Mitchell

We quite often see the different owls here in the Interior, they are hard to get good pictures of because of their nocturnal ways, the most common ones I have seen are the Great Horned Owl and the Snowy Owl, and I am hoping to be doing a post on the breathtakingly beautiful Snowy Owl soon.

Later...
K Fields
http://www.arcticulates.org/

Arcticulates: Triumphant Harvest

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 18:31:48 PDT

September 3, 2009

Arcticulates ��

Focusing on Alaska's Beauty

Author: K. Fields

Triumphant Harvest

YIPPEE! �WE DID IT !!! �
�We got to harvest the garden before the moose did this year. �It has been a long summer of guarding the garden goodies to keep those moose out.. �But it was sooo worth it.!! �

We managed to have a triumphant harvest�this year without a big moose bite out of the middle of each cabbage, as per years before. And we managed to harvest the lettuce , onions, potatoes, and collard greens without incident. �

Grandkids Displaying Their Harvested Cabbages ...
�A Very Serious Occasion for Some!
�

Photos by K Fields

It was a wonderful feeling this year not to be scrounging around in the Moose leftovers in the garden. �And as you can see by the next few photos we got it just in time, because the next day we caught this young bull moose in the garden.

Young Bull Moose Hiding Behind the Scarecrow

Photo by K Fields

He is pretty young. You can tell by the size of his rack (antlers), and his slim build. �Tho his are still growing, because they are still "in velvet" (a brown velvet like covering that peels off at the end of rack formation) His rack will be 5 times bigger in a couple of years and he will have added lots more bulk to his frame.

Young Bull Moose Caught With a Snout Full of Pea Plants

Photo by Steve Fields

It is right now the beginning of Moose Hunting Season here, in Alaska. �It is highly regulated by the Fish and Game department. And they will find anyone who breaks or ignores the regulations set for this season.. They can change from year to year depending on the size of the Moose population in various areas in Alaska. �

The Racks have to be a at least 50 inches wide with 3 or 4 tines on the front. This young Bull Moose pictured looks like he is maybe close 35 to 40 inches with only one or two front tines... Way to young to be a part of the Moose Harvest this year.

Click this link�which has more information with�beautifully drawn Antlers to show you the differences in sizes.

http://wildlife.alaska.gov/regulations/pdfs/mooseid.pdf

Young Bull Moose Finishing Off The Pea Plants

Photo by K Fields

As you can see by the photos the leaves are changing into the Reds, Yellows and �Oranges... colors of Autumn, which means it is time to clean up the garden area, and put everything away for next years gardening adventures.

�I will be leaving the gate open so that the moose can scrounge around �there all winter, so they won't be knocking my fence down when the snow builds up around it.

I am very happy with the way the garden turned out this year, the black fabric type paper I covered the ground with while planting really seemed to help keep the ground warm which in turn helped the plants grow wonderfully this year. �

Young Bull Moose Leaving Garden Area After I Mentioned Moose Hunting Season

Photo by K Fields

I am already planning�next year's garden crops, and the budget for it. I�love gardening! It helps get rid of the doldrums of long winters when you can see the plants grow and flourish under the long sunny summer days!

Later...

K Fields

See Also: �Garden Raider Wannabes

http://www.arcticulates.org

ARCTICULATES: Garden Raider Wannabes

Sat, 08 Aug 2009 18:20:29 PDT

August 8, 2009

Garden Raider Wannabes...

It's that time of year again, we we are in constant competition on who will get to harvest the gardens... first... in Alaska. �It �can be a quite a harrowing game of seeing how long it will be before the Moose break-down the defenses and raid the booty! �Because they are not afraid to stomp the people that are trying to protect thier gardens.

Moose Eyeballing the Growing Garden Veggies

It has been a rough summer for Alaska there has been well over 2 million acres �that have been burned by wildfires. �Most wildfires are usually started by lightening strikes. �Some are careless campers, which really are rare in Alaska. �July has been unusually dry causing the �land to easily catch fire and for it to spread extremely fast. �

In my humble opinion : � It does not help that we have strange�insects which I call spruce beetles killing our spruce, the miner leaf insect killing off the aspen, and a blight that is infecting our willows this year. �Which has caused a lot of dead trees kindling.

Moose Plan of Attack Session

The �garden I put in this year, I have worked on slowly, I have been working on the fencing this year, trying to get a fence high enough to discourage the moose from eating my crops. �Most of my garden funds went into that this year, I still have another�50 feet or more�fence to buy to replace the chicken wire (which stands around 4 foot tal) I have temporiarly put up on one side of the garden (not pictured), that stands around 4 foot high. �

Moose Testing the Strength of the Fence Post

The newer fence I have is 6 feet�high. � It is a little hard to tell by the photos but the scarecrow stands around �6 foot also. �It does a great job during�the beginning of summer, keeping the smaller varmints out and the birds, but�has no real effect on the moose as you can see by the photos.

Moose Pretending to be Innocently Grazing Outside the Garden Fence

The Moose in our area have what I call...� garden smart instincts.. they know�to wait till just before harvest to get the good stuff. �They leave the garden alone till around�August, �just when the veggies are finally getting some size to them and will be ready to harvest in a couple of weeks.

As of now, I am finally getting some peas, and the potato plants are�flowering, �And the cabbage heads are�about the size of my hand. �In a couple of weeks the cabbage should be the size of soccor balls (which would be considered small here in Alaska)

Closer View of Garden Without Moose Bystanders

I have heard�many cures for keeping moose out of the garden.. �One is of course... a good fence. �Another rather strange rumor... is sprinkling fox urine around the outside of the fence, which I find strange, because I could see a rabbit being leary of a fox's odor but not a great big moose. � Not to mention... Ewwwwwwwwww!!!!!!!

And� small matters such as a fence or people crazily screaming and running around,� banging pots together, (as I just did) rarely deters them from the nice fresh veggie salad that awaits them.. �

Black Fabric Type Paper Keeping the Garden Grounds Warm

This year I tried something new for me.. I bought 3 foot wide rolls of black paper, tho it looks grey to me.. It is almost like a type of fabric. �You roll it over the already tilled ground then cut holes where you want to put the plants. It is anchored down with metal pins, and in my garden I have used pieces of wood because of our high wind area. �

It has really helped the plants this year, by keeping the ground warmer, and the weeds less. It will �naturally disinagrate with the sun and water�because it is made from natural fibers. �I really had a great experience using it this year and will use it again next year, and maybe have a better idea of what I �am doing.

Cabbage, Peas, Onions, Potatoes, Lettuce, Collard Greens,
�Cucumbers, Squash, and Pumpkins
(the last three didn't do so well this year)

So... We will be carefully watching over the garden, and hopefully the raiders will not attack in the night hours! Later...

K Fields

See Also: Moose Marauders!

Http://www.arcticulates.org

ARCTICULATES: Magnificent Eagles

Sun, 17 May 2009 17:56:43 PDT

May 17, 2009

Magnificent Eagles!

There is nothing as beautiful as watching an Eagle soaring through the open skies! They own the skies when they fly!

It is said that Alaska is home to over 30,000 Eagles and also that Bald Eagles are more abundant in Alaska then any other state in the USA. It is not uncommon to see a Bald Eagle daily... flying around or perched on a tree top.

I would like to share some orginal photos taken by Richard Mitchell. These are some of the most detailed pictures I have seen of a Bald Eagle.. Click on this picture and it will open to a larger size. Enjoy!

In Alaska the Eagles are protected.... It is against the law to harm or kill these magnificent Eagles. They were granted Federal Protection in 1959. It is illegal to possess an Eagle alive or dead.. including feathers!

Alaska's population of Eagles remain healthy because of careful stewardship and conservation of their nesting habitats, and salmon spawning streams... a main food staple of Eagles in the summer and fall months. Plus being careful not to cause too much human disturbances in the areas where Eagles' nesting sites are.

Bald Eagles are Alaska's largest birds of prey! The wingspan alone is over 7 feet wide! The can weigh up to or a little over 14 pounds, pretty big for a bird!

The Bald Eagle is known by the white feather on the head and tail. Did you know that it takes 5 years before they get that unique look. When they are immature they can easily be mistaken for Golden Eagles, because they look so similar.

They start gathering nest materials and building in April. Near the end of April 2... possibly... 3 eggs are laid. There is a 35 day incubation period. The eaglets will attack the weakest one in the nest and kill it. Within 75 days after hatching they are out of the nest. They do not breed until they are 4 to 5 years of age!

I love seeing the Eagles I have seen them literally being attacked in mid-flight (it was possible to hear the thwack sound on contact ) by other birds such as the seagull. But it didn't seem to faze the Eagles at all. They just keep on flying gracefully higher and higher till you can't see them any longer.

Later...

K Fields

See Also: Baby! It's Cold Outside?

Arcticulates.Org

ARCTICULATES: Cook - Wild Blueberry Jam

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 11:03:23 PDT

April
30, 2009Arcticulates: Cooking in Alaska
Presents:
~ Wild
Blueberry Jam ~

By
K. Fields�
 �Ingredients:8 Cups of Wild Blueberries
2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice
7 Cups of�White Sugar
1 Pkg. Pectin

Directions:

1.����
Using a towel, dump
fresh blueberries on gently roll them as you take out any stems and
leaves, the
fibers on the towels are a great way of cleaning batches of fresh
berries
quickly. Wash the berries in clear water. Then crush the berries using
a
processer or potato masher. Measure out 5 cups of crushed berries.
2.����
Put lemon juice, sugar,
and pectin in to large pot and mix throughly Add fresh crushed
blueberries, Place
pot on stovetop, and cook on high, stirring constantly, bring to full
rolling
boil. Let it boil for at least one full minute, don�t forget
to keep stirring
or it will scorch and stick to pan.
3.����
Remove pan from heat,
skim off the foam on top of the berry mixture, and stir thoroughly and
skim the
foam again.
4.����
Pour the berry mixture into hot, sterilized
jars, and
seal. Either with a hot wax seal or if you prefer, use canning jar
lids,
process in boiling water for 10 minutes.
�
� � � � � Makes
approximately 7 pints.
 
K's
Tip:s

There
is nothing better then English Muffins spread with homemade wild
blueberry jam with breakfast!

Back to : Cooking
in Alaska

Arcticulates.Org

ARCTICULATES: Hockey! Junior Style...Fri, 17 Apr 2009 14:37:41 PDT

April
17, 2009

Hockey! Junior
Style...
 
Well...
for the first time ever....� I sat and watched Hockey
games.
�I have heard of Hockey and seen a few plays on the news or
something on TV but never have been to a real live game. �Till
now.. Well ... sorta... I got to watch the State Hockey Tournament
involving the littlest newest Hockey players that we will be reading
about as
the future" famers" of Hockey... The ones just learning how to skate,
and carry a big stick with out killing themselves or others near them.
�

These
little guys and some gals took the game seriously... They worked
out with energy and zeal. �The team I followed is the
one�where I live. Very active 8-11 year olds. They
worked really hard, listened to the directions of the coach and
assistants and then went out on that ice and played hard. It
didn't matter that they fell countless times on the hard ice, into the
walls and all over each other, they still got up and kept on
playing.. A winning spirit if I ever saw one. 

The
game of Hockey is a very popular sport in Alaska.. go figure.. a
game on ice... popular here.. .Of course, many people know that now,
after
Governor Sarah Palin announced that she was a Hockey mom... Which is a
whole other post.. Hockey moms and dads are pretty darn amazing
people... I have been to some of the most professional Hockey
rinks in the state and they are amazingly large... and cold.
Okay.. Some were not freezing cold... some were... other;
the seats were cold until you sat on them long enough to have a warm
spot.. But that never lasted long, because of jumping up and down,
shouting at the top of your lungs... and pacing when things got tense..
who had time to sit for any length of time.

The
gear these kids wore on the ice was phenomenal.. I am wondering
how they could even skate with all that padding and layers on.
They had elbow pads, wrist pads, ankle pads, knee
pads, stomach pads that tied on like a corset.. pads on there shoulders
and around their helmets, and they guys had to wear cups to protect
their privates, and most of these paddings were taped on with
lots of athletic tape so they wouldn't come loose during the game and
fall off. Plus their uniforms and gloves and they also were mouth
guards
to protect their teeth, not to mention the heavy skates.. You didn't
even recognize the kids when they were finished getting ready for the
game. Yet even with all that on... They skated�and played as
if it
were nothing. Absolutely amazing to watch

They
played their little hearts out and they won almost all the games
they played, those that they didn't win they tied. So during the final
game in the
tournament the tension was thick�with the boys, because
they would be playing against the team they tied against, which was a
really tough game... The score stayed tied thoughout the whole game,
both
teams played hard and they were a good match against each other. So my
team was feeling a little tense about playing them again.. but that's
okay because I knew the other team was feeling the same way..
The final game of the season was the deciding factor of which
team�wins the Alaska State Championship.. 

It
had already been a long 4 days of playing against other
teams, and even though my team was winning, the one or two games a
day.. plus being away from home. Being overtired from the
excitement etc.. etc.. started showing a little wear and tear on the
kids and their parents. 

But
it sure didn't stop that winning spirit they had. They
played hard and didn't even relatliate when the other teams
started to use Cheking (pushing against a player at full force to knock
them down... which is not allowed in the younger kids games) and using
hockey sticks to trip up a skater. Which the instigators were caught
and penilzed, but someone would end up getting hurt just the same,
upsetting all the team members. Their coach who was a
great guy... told them while looking at their tired, hurt, mad, little
faces... 
that the best way to get even is to score. Which rived up the
boy's spirits and off they went and they did score... again and again..
and in the end their good sportsmanship ended up winning them the State
Championship.. 

One
of those players is our grandson whom I think is awesome.. 

Well
done! Jesse! To you and your Hockey teammates this year!

Later...

K
Fields

See
Also: �Baby!
It's Cold Outside?

Arcticulates.org

ARCTICULATES: Mt. Redoubt... Erupt or Not?Tue, 17 Mar 2009 16:02:37 PDT

March
17, 2009
~~
Mt. Redoubt... Erupt Or Not? ~~Seems
like Alaska's Volcano called Mt Redoubt is living up to its name
yet again! �For almost 2 months now, Mt Redoubt has been
acting up
and then dying down. �Threatening�eruption... then
quiet. 

�Speculations abound on if the volcano will really erupt and
if it does... how bad will it be... �Mt Redoubt has had
a
history
of acting up for centuries, and I wouldn't doubt that Alaskan oldtimers
are taking bets on when it will erupt. 

      Beautiful
Scenic Volcano Mt Redoubt when peaceful taken by K.L. Wallace, August
11, 2005

When
viewing this beautiful mountain when all is calm, it is hard to
believe that this is one of the most active volcanoes in the
upper Cook Inlet... with Mt Spurr toe to toe on sesmic activity

Mt
Redoubt currant eruption photo by Heather Bleick taken on March 15,
2009 
courtesy
of Alaska Volcano Observatory / U.S. Geological Survey 

Just
a few
days ago after everyone was settling down thinking it was
going to erupt again, it started up again, this picture above was taken
March 15, 2009. �It seems the Mt Redoubt is causeing doubts
again
on if it will erupt or not. �The emergency code has been risen
to
code Orange - Alert level watch.

Orange
meaning:

ORANGE:
Volcano
is exhibiting heightened or
escalating unrest with increased potential of eruption, timeframe
uncertain, OR eruption
is underway with no or minor
volcanic-ash emissions [ash-plume height specified, if possible].

Watch
meaning:

WATCH:
Volcano
is exhibiting heightened or
escalating unrest with increased potential of eruption, timeframe
uncertain, OR eruption
is underway but poses
limited hazards. 

Alert
level warning meanings are exerpts from the Alaska.edu 

Photo
taken by Chris Waythomas on January 31, 2009 shows a fumarole on the
side of Mt Redoubt 

courtesy
of Alaska Volcano Observatory / U.S. Geological Survey 

A
Fumerole is :

A
fumarole (Latin fumus, smoke)
is an opening in Earth's (or any other astronomical body's) crust,
often in the neighborhood of volcanoes, which emits steam and gases
such as carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, hydrochloric acid, and hydrogen
sulfide. The name solfatara, from the
Italian solfo, sulfur
(via the Sicilian dialect), is given to fumaroles that emit sulfurous
gases. 

Fumaroles
may occur along tiny cracks or long fissures, in chaotic clusters or
fields, and on the surfaces of lava flows and thick deposits of
pyroclastic flows. A fumarole
field is an
area of thermal springs and gas
vents where magma or hot igneous rocks at shallow depth are releasing
gases or interacting with groundwater. From the perspective of
groundwater, fumaroles could be described as a hot spring that boils
off all its water before the water reaches the surface.

Exerpt
taken from �Wikipedia.org

A
vertical view inside the summit crater of Mt Redoubt taken by Christian
Neal courtesy of 

Alaska
Volcano Observatory / U.S. Geological Survey 

Nearly
vertical view of the area inside the summit crater at Redoubt affected
by tephra fall from the small ash erupton of March 15, 2009. The new
vent is obscured and out of view to the upper left. The vapor and gas
cloud at left is rising from the new vent and the 1990 dome and other
fumarolic sources. Note the significant ice collapse. Dark area at
lower right is (?) a remnant of the 1960s dome poking through the ice.
If you zoom into this image, you might find hints of large ballistics
ejected during the explosion - hard to be sure. These are large
crevasses hundreds of meters long and tens of meters wide

Exerpt
taken from: Alaska.edu

Beautiful
photo of Volcano Mt Redoubt erupting steam and ash, taken by David
Wartinbee on March 15, 2009

Even
tho it has been inconsistantly threatening eruption the past few
months, Mt Redoubt makes some beautiful photographs that for some
strange reason depict a peaceful environment. �Maybe it is the
�flowing plume of steam and ash into the clear air that makes
it
so picturesque... or maybe it is the feeling of wonder at how volcanoes
work! �I don't know but I do hope that if it finally does
erupt
that it will not cause too much damage, and will again quiet down for
years to come.

Here
are a couple of helpful links on how and what to do if a volcano erupts;

�How
to prepare for a Vocanic Eruption: Volcanoes.usgs.gov/ash/

Ash
Fall collection directions: Alaska.edu/ashfall.php

Background
photo on ihis post is a picture of Mt. Redoubt erupting in 1990, taken
by R. Clucas

Later...

K
Fields

See
Also: Mountainous
Eruptivity

Arcticulates.Org

ARCTICULATES : Alaska's Essence Au NaturaleSun, 15 Mar 2009 20:26:46 PDT

March
15, 2009

~~
Alaska's Essence Au Naturale~~
Alaska
presented our first float au naturale called "Spirit
of the Wild" in the Rose Parade this year! �The design of the
float was completely covered with organic material, using some
indigenous plant material from�various regions in Alaska.
�This beautiful float showcases Alaska's copious wildlife,
vast and abundant natural beauty, breathtaking scenery, rich history,
�and the indigenous cultural traditions. 

It
won the National
Trophy, which goes to the float that best depicts life in the USA:
past, present and future.

(Click
on photos to enlarge in new window) 

This
float is 22 feet wide, 55 feet long and 18 feet high,�and
within that space it has a sled with 6 realistic sled dogs,
representing the famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, which recognizes
mushing as an Official State Sport of Alaska.

There
is also a Grizzly Bear carrying a Salmon in it's mouth (which is
symbolic of Alaska, it is also what is depicted on�U.S.
Mint�s 49th commemorative quarter in its 50 State Quarters
program , a Bald Eagle nested in a tall tree stump, a King Crab,
Puffins (state bird - many thought they were penguins)
and Walrus,� plus... my favorite... a wonderful fully antlered
moose, which like the bear, moves it's head realistically back and
forth.

It
also had 5 different types of masks, each
representing one of Alaska�s major Native cultural groups
that use their
beautiful artistic abilities in creating things that carry traditional
and historical themes. 

There
is�(not pictured) steam rising from the Alaska railroad
engine (Alaska
Railroad has been involved in nearly every major economic development
in the state) that is coming out from a tunnel built in the side of a
mountain which represents "Denali/Mt McKinley the highest mountain in
North America. 

A
very special thank-you goes to:

Ketchikan
Convention &
Visitors Bureau 

They
provided several boxes of a feather
moss, scientific
name: Hylocomium splendens, more
commonly known as Stair
step moss.
It is one of the most abundant of the mosses that flourish in the
boreal (another word for temperate rain) forest of southeast Alaska. It
can be found on rocks, trees, etc. and its color is affected by the
amount of sunlight it is exposed. The moss was collected from fallen
trees in a forested area in Ketchikan.

Alaska
Botanical Gardens 

They
provided
three types of vegetation: 

Spruce
Boughs
One
of the most dominant tree species in the sub-arctic or "boreal"
forest is Spruce, and the most�common type of spruce in South
central Alaska and the Alaska Botanical Garden is White Spruce

�Alder
"cones"
Alder
twig catkins,
cone-like fruit are representative
of a very common shrub. Alaska has
a variety alders some of
grow as shrubs and other
which can reach tree-size

Moss-like
hanging tree lichens
The
mossy-looking plant that hangs from trees in many Alaskan forests
is actually one of a few different types of lichens, it is called Gray
horsehair lichen (Bryoria capillaris) is pale gray to a darker smoky
brown; it is most common in old growth forest and forested peatlands 

Later...

K
Fields 

See
Also: �High
One or Not?

 Arcticulates.org 

ARCTICULATES: Ice Fishing Season!Tue, 03 Mar 2009 16:48:14 PST

March
3, 2009

Ice
Fishing Season!
In
the month of� March it seems to be the best
time for
ice fishing.
�At least that is what I hear... I am not a ice fisherman!

�What is
Ice Fishing you ask? 

�Well... Ice fishing is walking or riding out to
the
middle of a frozen lake, taking a �large ice-auger (looks like
an
over sized drill bit)� and drill a hole in 15 inch thick ice.
�You
then have this special type fishing pole, with a short handle and reel,
fishing line, and hook. �You use your own special bait and
drop
the line in the hole drilled in the ice and wait... and wait... and
wait...

�till you finally feel the tugging on the line and reel
in
the fish.

Photo
by K Fields

I
have not
been ice
fishing yet... I will someday when I can get over the
fear of walking on ice, hearing the weird cracking sound underneath my
feet unnerves me. I automatically see the picture in my mind of the
cartoons with the ice cracking and floating away from the poor dude
standing on the ice. � Being stranded on a small chunk of ice
in
the middle of �freezing cold lake does not sound appealing to
me.
�But I have heard that it isn't like that

Photo
by Dwight Phillips

There
are many, many, many Alaskans
that love to ice fish. Some build
little box houses that can measure anywhere around 4' x 4' x 6'
�to �8' X 8' X 6" �They do not have floors
in most cases
or if they do then there are special holes in the floor where you can
drill the ice and sit and fish inside. � It keeps you out of
the
wind that usually is blowing across the frozen lakes. �I seen
a
couple of small travel trailers used for ice houses, they just drive
them out on the ice and leave them there for the winter.

Photo
by Dwight Phillips 

An
Ice
Fisherman has to be prepared for just
about anything.
�The temps can bottom out quickly, so you need to
have plenty of
clothing layers on plus heavy parkas and snow pants, gloves, hat, and
heavy well insulated boots. �You also need to have all your
fishing equipment plus ice augur. �plus something to carry
your
catch in. �I have seen some people just drag out a old kid's
snow
sled to use to carry all the equipment with them and to drag their
catch back.

 Photo
by Dwight Phillips

In
the end as you can see by the
photo above it is worth all the
trouble... That huge pike �is amazing... 

Who knew such large
fish
live under all that ice. 

But
even still... maybe... I will try out ice fishing next year!
�  

Later...

K
Fields

See Also:
�Baby!
It's Cold Outside?

Arcticulates.org

ARCTICULATES: Cook - Cranberry Sourdough PancakesTue, 17 Feb 2009 08:36:05 PST

November
17,
2008Arcticulates: Cooking in Alaska
Presents:
~
Cranberry Sourdough Pancakes ~

By
K. Fields�
 �Ingredients:2
cups of sourdough starter
2
cups of flour
1
cup of water
2
large eggs
1
tbls. olive oil
1
tsp. cinnamon
1/2
tsp. salt
1
tsp. baking soda
1
cup of fresh cranberries
Butter
Pancake
Syrup of your choice

Directions:

In
large bowl mix flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Add
sourdough starter, olive oil, eggs, and water, stir until smooth.
Add
cranberries mix throughly into batter.
Pour�batter
into pancake size into hot oiled skillet.
Cook
unti you see tiny bubbles all over the pancake then flip and cook the
other side.
Serve
topped with butter or margarine and syrup
Serves
4

K's
Tip's

I
am not crazy about pancake syrup and use it very seldom, one of my
favorite toppings for pancakes is unsweetened applesauce. The touch of
tartness goes perfectly with the tart cranberries.

Back
to : Cooking
in Alaska

Arcticulates.org

ARCTICULATES: DaydreamsMon, 16 Feb 2009 17:00:52 PST

February
16, 2009
~~
Daydreams ~~It
is
getting that time of year, where winter is
becoming old and wearing, it is nicer outside right now because it is
warmer, plus there are still lots of winter sports happening... like the
iron dog races (snowmobiles), the iditarod (dog sled race) and skiing,
ice fishing etc... etc...

 But
now
that the feeling has changed in the atmosphere around us from
winter to a spring like quality, which I think is due to the daylight
being longer now and being able to see the sun more. Thoughts of summer
start taking over.

Photo by Dwight Phillips

Even
tho
there is so much beauty in the winter season,
around late February and March we tend to start looking forward to it
ending. Looking forward to the warm sunny days of summer.

Photo by Dwight Phillips

Winter
is a season of rest and a time to relax a
little.
But around this time of year, all of us start getting edgy and have feelings
of impatience for the winter snows to melt and for spring to begin. 

 We
realize that isn't gonna happen for another month or two. But that
doesn't stop the impatience that springs up during the wait .

Photo by Mike Kingston

This is the time of the year
where we still get a day
or
two really cold spells and the ice is still very thick on the lakes.
And we still have to bundle up to stay outside for any length of time.

Which is
one thing that starts getting tiresome...
dressing in many
layers, wearing heavy coats, hats, mitten/gloves, boots scarves...
etc... etc.. 

Photo by Mike Kingston

This is also the time of year
where
cabin fever really
starts showing up, which can be alleviated with special lighting, or
going outside and standing in the sun when it is out. 

This time of the year
is when Cabin Fever seems to strike it's hardest, bringing out
suicidal tendencies, plus physical violence rears it's ugly head. 

Photo by Mike Kingston

There are plenty of things to do
to
help alleviate Cabin
Fever symptoms. The biggest one is to get out of the house and go for a
walk. �The fresh air, �natural lighting, and change
of scene
other then the four walls in the house can lighten the spirit and
replace depression with new hope... 

Photo by Dwight Phillips

There is such a contrast between
summer
time sceneries and
winter time sceneries that it is hard to believe it is the same place.
�The winter colors are full of  the different shades of blues, greys, whites and
black,
and the summer colors are full of the different shades of greens, purples, browns, yellows.
�Anyone who lives in different seasonal areas will understand
what
I mean by this. 

Photo by Mike Kingston

I am already starting to think
about my garden and
what I
want to grow this year. �Last summer the ground never warmed
up
to where it needed to be, so the growing plants struggled. �This year I am
going
to put some stuff over the ground, that is sorta like black plastic to
help draw the warmth of the sun to the plants. �Usually our
summers are warm enough in the interior not to have to resort to this, but I
am taking no chances this year.

Photo by Richard Mitchell

Not
to mention... I am really looking
forward to
other things that spring brings...� baby wild animals! 

Later...

K
Fields

See Also:� Mountainous Eruptivity! 

Arcticulates.org

ARCTICULATES: Cook - Buffalo Burger SauceThu, 12 Feb 2009 11:39:22 PST

February
12,
2008Arcticulates: Cooking in Alaska
Presents:
~
Buffalo Burger Sauce ~

By K. Fields�
 �Ingredients:1 lb. ground buffalo/bison meat
1 whole onion diced
1 whole bell pepper diced
10 mushrooms diced or sliced
4 fresh tomatoes diced
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp sage
Salt to taste
Egg noodles or white rice cooked

Directions:

Place ground buffalo/bison into frying pan and brown, when very little
pink is left in the meat then add the diced onions, bell peppers,
mushrooms, and tomatoes. 

Stir in seasonings. 

Simmer for approx 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve over egg noodles or rice

Top with grated Parmesan cheese or cheese of your choice 

K's
Tip:s
This
sauce is simple and you can add all kinds vegetables during the
simmering stage if you want.

�In fact for my
vegetarian friends this sauce can be made without the meat, with just a
half cup of water� and 1/2 tbs. oil added to the simmer time.

It is
awesome.!

~K

Back to : Cooking
in Alaska

Arcticulates.org

ARCTICULATES: Morphing NaturallyThu, 12 Feb 2009 08:44:30 PST

February
11, 2009 

~~
Morphing Naturally ~~
We have
several animals that change color in Alaska, which I like to
call morphing naturally.

In
this post I will be talking about two of them, the Snowshoe Hare
(rabbits) and the Ptarmagin (bird)

�(pronounced
tar-ma-gen).

Metamorphose:

1.
To change the form or nature of; transform.

2.
T subject to metamorphosis or metamorphism

3.to
undergo or be capable of undergoing a change in frm or nature.

Excerpt
taken from: � Dictionary.Reference.com

Snowshoe Hare in a Summer Coat of Browns

Actually
Alaska has two different breeds of Hares, one is called the
Snowshoe Hare (Lepus americanus) and the other is called the Alaskan
Hare (Lepus othus) which is also known as the Tundra Hare. �In
this post I am going to just concentrate on the Snowshoe Hare.

Snowshoe
Hares are about 18 - 20 inches long and weight about 4-5
pounds. They have a brownish tan in color coat in the summer with some
bits of white fur on the feet �and underbelly. 

Their
fur changes to what looks almost pure white against the snow,
with the underfur being a gray color. It is during the winter months
that the black tips on their ears stand out. Their paws are completely
covered in fur including the skin pads so that their feet are well
protected from the ice and snow in the winter, which is
why�they
called Snowshoe hares. 

Snowshoe Hare in a Winter Coat of White

The
Snowshoe hare breeds when they are about 1 year old. and they have
2 or 3 litters a year. The gestation of the Snowshoe hare is approx 36
days. �The baby hares called Leverets (tho I call them
bunnies) are born in May here in
the
interior of Alaska, with as many as 6 little ones. The female hare
breed again, immediately after they have had a litter. 

The
tiny bunnies are born in a small hole or depression, they
weigh around 2 ounces and unlike a rabbit, they are born with fur, and
are usually up and about before their fur
completely dries from birth. In a couple of days after birth they are
wandering around, and in just a couple of weeks are eating the green
grass and vegetation.

You
can usually find Snowshoe Hares in the forests with spruce trees,
and in swamp areas. They eat a large variety of plants and will also
eat the buds off the Aspen and Willow Trees.

They
are most active during the evening and early morning hours, you
can usually see them sitting on the sides of the road. �Just
sitting straight up looking all around. �They usually will
travel
around in the same paths in the summer and winter. 

Snowshoe Hare Tracks in the Snow

They
populate in cycles, some years in a row we will hardly
see a Hare anywhere, then all a sudden they are everywhere. You always
know the cycle is high in number because there are
usually�Snowshoe Hare carcasses all over the roadways, because
they are so thick in number and are constantly�hopping onto
the roads unexpectedly

The
Ptarmigan also called Rock or Willow Ptarmigans are the Alaska
State Birds. Whenever I see one they always remind me of a small
chicken, some say pidgins... They are very round looking birds.
�
They can fly but seems like they would rather be on the ground or low
bushes. 

Ptarmigan in Summer Feathers

They
always seem so calm to me. You can practically walk right up to
them before they start showing any signs of nervousness. They glean the
berries off the low bushes on the ground. �They have no
problem
with blending in, in fact you practically can't see them until you are
practically walking on them. �In the summer they are covered
in a
mixture of brown, black, tan and white feathers, they really blend well
into the ground cover and bushes. �

In
the winter they turn completely white, you cannot see them in the
snow unless they move, and that is only because their eyes look so dark
against the white feathers, that you notice them when they move against
the white snow. They are very beautiful birds and they are also good to
eat. Hunting season for Ptarmigans is usually around August
through March, and there is usually what they call a bag
limit set. You have to check in with Alaska Fish and Game to find out
what the requirements are in the area you plan on hunting in. 

Ptarmigan in Winter Feathers

They are
easy to
catch, because as I said you can practically walk right up to them,
�some refer to them as "dumb birds" because it seems to take
them a
few
minutes to realize they may be in danger, and then they fly practically
straight up... into low tree branches when they do take flight.
�

Later...

K
Fields

See Also: �Baby!
It's Cold Outside? 

Arcticulates.org

ARCTICULATES: Cry For Help! Just The Beginning?Thu, 22 Jan 2009 15:40:23 PST

January
22, 2009 
~~
Cry For Help! Just the Beginning? ~~Emmonak needs help! This tiny town of about 800
residents here in
Alaska is�struggling... There
isn't enough income to cover the cost of heating fuel and food. The
heating fuel prices have been around $9.00 a gallon for the better part
of this winter, and that doesn't even count the high cost of�
food
since the fuel prices skyrocketed last year.

�And I predict this is only the beginning of places here in
Alaska and also in the other 49 states that will be sending out SOS
signals, the poor economy issues are starting to take toll on many
small towns, villages, and businesses...

Winter in Emmonak, Alaska

Photographer Unknown

The check for 1200 dollars Alaska handed out to everyone who lives in
Alaska, or at least to those elgible for the dividend, was to help with
the extreme costs of fuel, but it does not go far at these kind of
prices. It pays for 133 gallons of heating fuel which is a drop in the
bucket for 9 months of winter with extreme tempetures. Where I live we
go thru 100 or more gallons of heating fuel a month, during the winter
months, just to keep our humble abode warm, which it is a small three
bedroom well insulated house�and the thermostat set at 65'F.
Not very big, but expensive to keep warm.

I realize that many think... why don't they just move to a place with
cheaper living expenses... Well... How would you feel if someone told
you, you had to leave your home and move into a place you don't know,
people you don't know, and for what... lesser (not by much) fuel
prices? That doesn't make sense. If that's the case then most of
Alaska's citizens will need to move to the lower 48 States because
Alaska consists mostly of small towns and villages that are remote,
which is where the bulk of its population lives; and where the prices
of heating fuel and gasoline are at their highest.

It also doesn't make sense that their fuel should be so much higher
either.� Sure it has to be flown into that area, but to make
it cost 4 or more times the price doesn't seem right.� Here in
Alaska we are still paying well above 2.00 a gallon for gas in the
smaller towns with road access. Where I live near a population of maybe
2500, it is still $2.89 a gallon, it seems we are always paying a
dollar or more per gallon then everyone else in the country. While many
places in the lower 48 states are enjoying fuel at well under $2.00 a
gallon. Oh! I just heard that California is paying higher then 2.00
again. Why?

Oil - Gas - Petroleum Data

Also this specific area which also depends on the Salmon catch in the
summer to bring in finances and food supplies for the winter has
experienced a very low Salmon count this year, which means less food
and income for the winter months.

Summer in Emmonak, Alaska

Photographer Unknown

Families in Emmonak, Alaska are trying to survive and not saying
anything because of being embarrassed that they couldn't do it, until
they found out it wasn't just them, that most of the people in that
area are in the same boat.� Then one of them decides to bring
it to the attention of the officials here in Alaska. So now it is being broadcast all over the news
medias! So much for handling things with consideration and respect. 

So now the State Officials are looking into the problem and have sent
officials from these different departments:

Departments of Commerce, Labor,
Public Assistance,and what has
been done so far help for Emmonak.� Also Homeland Security�, and
the Rural
Alaska Community Action Program were sent there
too.� Tho... I do wonder why Homeland Security would be
involved... hmmmm....

As rich as Alaska is in oil and other natural resources there is no
excuse as to why any of its citizens should be begging for food or
help.� I am not saying they should be getting handouts, but
they shouldn't have to feel embarrassed about needing help from
extinuationg circomstances either.

If anyone wants to know here is some information on how to help if you
feel too:

      Emmonak Tribal Council

PO Box 126

Emmonak, AK 99581
To donate with credit card, call the City
of Emmonak at 907-949-1227
To ask questions about the situation there,
call Nick Tucker with the tribal council 907-949-1011.

Some ill informed commentor on one article on the net made the mistake
of saying that if they gave up their booze, pot, and cigarettes then
they could afford to feed themselves and their families.� Some
people jump to conclusions and spout off about things of which they
know nothing of. 

It bothers me... that there are people who are so hardened by life that
they can sit out there, hiding behind a computer keyboard and make
ill-informed absurd, half-witted comments, and are willing to sit back
and let their neighbors starve to death because of circumstances beyond
their control. yet... And I can imagine this foolish commenter would be
the first in line and yelling the loudest if it were themselves or
their families suffering.

But what do I know!

�Except the fact that Fort Greely will be test firing missles on the 24th of
this month and in Feburary. Not too far from where I live. Oh! Joy!!!

�But that's a whole nother topic! 

Later...

K
Fields

See Also: �Natural Gas or Hot Air?

Arcticulates : KFields

Arcticulates: Oil... Alaska's Liquid Gold

November 14, 2009

Arcticulates �

Focusing on Alaska's Beauty

Author: K. Fields

~~ Oil... Alaska's Liquid Gold? ~~

ARCTICULATES: Whooo Loves Owls?

September 23, 2009

Arcticulates ��

Focusing on Alaska's Beauty

Author: K. Fields

~~ Whooo Loves Owls? ~~

Arcticulates: Triumphant Harvest

September 3, 2009

Arcticulates ��

Focusing on Alaska's Beauty

Author: K. Fields

~~ Triumphant Harvest ~~

ARCTICULATES: Garden Raider Wannabes

~~ Garden Raider Wannabes...~~

ARCTICULATES: Magnificent Eagles

~~ Magnificent Eagles! ~~

ARCTICULATES: Cook - Wild Blueberry Jam

April 30, 2009

~ Wild Blueberry Jam ~

�Ingredients:

ARCTICULATES: Hockey! Junior Style...

Hockey! Junior Style...

ARCTICULATES: Mt. Redoubt... Erupt or Not?

~~ Mt. Redoubt... Erupt Or Not? ~~

ARCTICULATES : Alaska's Essence Au Naturale

~~ Alaska's Essence Au Naturale~~

ARCTICULATES: Ice Fishing Season!

Ice Fishing Season!

ARCTICULATES: Cook - Cranberry Sourdough Pancakes

November 17, 2008

~ Cranberry Sourdough Pancakes ~

�Ingredients:

ARCTICULATES: Daydreams

~~ Daydreams ~~

ARCTICULATES: Cook - Buffalo Burger Sauce

February 12, 2008

~ Buffalo Burger Sauce ~

�Ingredients:

ARCTICULATES: Morphing Naturally

~~ Morphing Naturally ~~

ARCTICULATES: Cry For Help! Just The Beginning?

~~ Cry For Help! Just the Beginning? ~~

Oil... Alaska's Liquid Gold?

Whooo Loves Owls?

Triumphant Harvest

Garden Raider Wannabes...

Magnificent Eagles!

Mt. Redoubt... Erupt Or Not?

Alaska's Essence Au Naturale

Daydreams

Morphing Naturally

Cry For Help! Just the Beginning?