Long-term observations are critical to understanding long-term environmental change. The Arctic tundra, under climate change, is expected to experience profound changes, including shrub encroachment and a disrupted snow regime. Direct, long-term field observations to monitor and assess these changes, however, are rare. The goal of this research project is to provide such data. In 1991, during my PhD research on Victoria Island, I established 80 permanent plots where I quantified the cover of plant species; I also monitored the hardness and thickness of snow during two winters. These field observations represent important data for assessing changes over the past quarter-century. They also represent valuable baseline data for the future. This proposal is to evaluate changes in the past 25 years in vegetation and snow conditions and to ensure sustained, long-term monitoring of those conditions. In August 2022, I will travel to the newly opened Canadian High Arctic Research Station (CHARS) to re-establish permanent plots. (I expect to relocate these sites precisely. In 1991, each site was laid out using a 100-m tape and marked with aluminum stakes.) Following the original protocols, I will quantify vegetation composition and abundance. In April 2023, I will return to measure snow hardness and thickness. I will evaluate changes using standard multivariate techniques, with a focus on changes over time (1991-93 v. 2022-23). Finally, I will ensure the continuation of these observations. I will photograph each plot; I will demonstrate field protocols to CHARS personnel; and I will archive the photographs and data for long-term use.

There are two minor modifications to this protocol: - A change in the start and end date of the fieldwork (delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic) to 12-18 August 2022 - A shift in the location of the field camp to the north (rather than south) side of the Ekalluk River, approximately 2 km north