Scientists from the Institute of Industrial Ecology Problems of the North are conducting research in the Arctic aimed at assessing the condition of northern taiga forests and studying changes in forest ecosystems. To support this work, researchers are deploying specialized devices known as “rain traps” and instruments designed to monitor “soil respiration,” helping gather data for long-term biogeochemical monitoring.
As part of the project, researchers installed 150 specialized collection devices equipped with sample bags designed to capture atmospheric precipitation and stemflow water. The collected samples will help scientists assess forest health and determine levels of environmental pollution affecting surrounding ecosystems.
Biogeochemical monitoring makes it possible to track the movement of chemical elements, including heavy metals, through all components of forest ecosystems — from the atmosphere and forest canopy to litter, soil and groundwater. This integrated approach helps scientists better understand environmental changes and identify ecological risks.
Previous studies conducted in Yakutia, Krasnoyarsk Krai, as well as Alaska and Northern Canada, have shown that large-scale forest fires increase the transport of dissolved organic matter, nitrogen and phosphorus through snowmelt and rainwater runoff. These processes can alter soil structure and forest ecosystem dynamics, highlighting the need for additional observations, monitoring and the use of remote sensing methods.
📌 Source: “Ecology of Russia” online media outlet.
