Ann Gibbs
Geologist at the USGS Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Science and Products
Filter Total Items: 28
Topobathymetric digital elevation models - coastal Alaska (ver. 2.0, March 2026) Topobathymetric digital elevation models - coastal Alaska (ver. 2.0, March 2026)
This data release consists of a series of seamless topobathymetric digital elevation models (TBDEMs) for coastal Alaskan communities. Each TBDEM was assembled from best available, multi-source topographic and bathymetric elevation data collected at the time of processing. These products were created to support the development of dynamic flood models, but are also intended for reuse by...
In situ field data, Coastal Alaska, 2023 to 2025 (ver. 2.0, March 2026) In situ field data, Coastal Alaska, 2023 to 2025 (ver. 2.0, March 2026)
These field data such as first floor elevation and bathymetric surveys were collected to support development of coastal mapping products and advance storm response and recovery in Alaskan coastal communities. The data consists of essential community infrastructure elevation data to better understand flood exposure and support analysis of flood mitigation solutions, bathymetric surveys to...
Benthic habitat map of the geomorphological structure, biological cover, and geologic zonation of Olowalu reef, Maui Benthic habitat map of the geomorphological structure, biological cover, and geologic zonation of Olowalu reef, Maui
This shapefile contains habitat polygons identifying the dominant and major geomorphological structure, biological type and percent cover, and geologic zone for 11 square kilometers of Olowalu reef off west-central Maui at a minimum mapping unit of 100 square meters. Habitats were mapped with heads-up digitization using the NOAA Habitat Digitizer Extension in ArcMap (Esri, v.10.8.2)...
Nearshore wave time-series along the coast of Alaska computed with a numerical wave model Nearshore wave time-series along the coast of Alaska computed with a numerical wave model
Alaska's Arctic coast has some of the highest erosion rates in the world. Erosion in the Arctic is primarily driven by permafrost thaw and wave activity. The warming climate decreases sea ice coverage, resulting in an increase in wave energy. To overcome the lack of available observational wave data in the nearshore, waves were downscaled with a numerical wave model (SWAN) utilizing...
Swath bathymetry and acoustic-backscatter data collected in 2013 offshore Maui and Kaho`olawe, Hawaii, during field activity A-01-13-HW Swath bathymetry and acoustic-backscatter data collected in 2013 offshore Maui and Kaho`olawe, Hawaii, during field activity A-01-13-HW
Bathymetry and acoustic-backscatter data were collected during a February 2013 SWATHPlus survey offshore of the Hawaiian islands of Maui and Kaho`olawe (field activity number A-01-13-HW). The data are provided as 1-meter resolution GeoTIFF files.
Alaska coastal orthoimagery and elevation data: Icy Cape to Cape Prince of Wales, 2016 Alaska coastal orthoimagery and elevation data: Icy Cape to Cape Prince of Wales, 2016
This data release presents orthoimagery and elevation data based on aerial imagery of the Alaska coastline between Icy Cape and Cape Prince of Wales. These data products and the source aerial imagery were generated by Fairbanks Fodar for the U.S. Geological Survey. Aerial imagery was collected in 2016 between August 29 and September 4 and extends from the shoreline to 400-4000 meters...
Historical shorelines and morphological metrics for barrier islands and spits along the north coast of Alaska between Cape Beaufort and the U.S.-Canadian border, 1947 to 2019 Historical shorelines and morphological metrics for barrier islands and spits along the north coast of Alaska between Cape Beaufort and the U.S.-Canadian border, 1947 to 2019
A suite of morphological metrics were derived from existing shoreline and elevation datasets for barrier islands and spits located along the north-slope coast of Alaska between Cape Beaufort and the U.S.-Canadian border. This dataset includes barrier shorelines and polygons attributed with morphological metrics from five time periods: 1950s, 1980s, 2000s, 2010s, and 2020s.
Nearshore bathymetry data from the Unalakleet River mouth, Alaska, 2019 Nearshore bathymetry data from the Unalakleet River mouth, Alaska, 2019
This data release presents nearshore bathymetry data collected at the mouth of the Unalakleet River in Alaska, near the city of Unalakleet. The data were collected in August 2019 by the U.S. Geological Survey, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center. Nearshore bathymetry was measured along survey lines from the shore to a depth of approximately -7.4 m NAVD88 and in a portion of the...
A GIS compilation of vector shorelines and coastal bluff edge positions, and associated rate-of-change data for Barter Island, Alaska A GIS compilation of vector shorelines and coastal bluff edge positions, and associated rate-of-change data for Barter Island, Alaska
This dataset consists of rate-of-change statistics for the coastal bluffs and shorelines at Barter Island, Alaska, for the time period 1947 to 2020. Rate calculations were computed within a GIS using the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) version 5.0, an ArcGIS extension developed by the U.S. Geological Survey. A reference baseline was used as the originating point for the...
Modeled 21st century storm surge, waves, and coastal flood hazards and supporting oceanographic and geological field data (2010 and 2011) for Arey and Barter Islands, Alaska and vicinity Modeled 21st century storm surge, waves, and coastal flood hazards and supporting oceanographic and geological field data (2010 and 2011) for Arey and Barter Islands, Alaska and vicinity
Changes in Arctic coastal ecosystems in response to global warming may be some of the most severe on the planet. A better understanding and analysis of the rates at which these changes are expected to occur over the coming decades is crucial in order to delineate high-priority areas that are likely to be affected by climate changes. The data provided in this release are part of a study...
National assessment of shoreline change: A GIS compilation of vector shorelines and associated shoreline change data for the north coast of Alaska, Icy Cape to Cape Prince of Wales National assessment of shoreline change: A GIS compilation of vector shorelines and associated shoreline change data for the north coast of Alaska, Icy Cape to Cape Prince of Wales
Beach erosion is a persistent problem along most open-ocean shores of the United States. Along the Arctic coast of Alaska, coastal erosion is widespread and threatens communities, defense and energy-related infrastructure, and coastal habitat. As coastal populations continue to expand and infrastructure and habitat are increasingly threatened by erosion, there is increased demand for...
Projected flooding extents and depths based on 10-, 50-, 100-, and 500-year wave-energy return periods, with and without coral reefs, for the States of Hawaii and Florida, the Territories of Guam, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Projected flooding extents and depths based on 10-, 50-, 100-, and 500-year wave-energy return periods, with and without coral reefs, for the States of Hawaii and Florida, the Territories of Guam, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands,
This data release provides flooding extent polygons (flood masks) and depth values (flood points) based on wave-driven total water levels for 22 locations within the States of Hawaii and Florida, the Territories of Guam, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. For each of the 22 locations there are eight associated...
Filter Total Items: 48
USGS permafrost research determines the risks of permafrost thaw to biologic and hydrologic resources USGS permafrost research determines the risks of permafrost thaw to biologic and hydrologic resources
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in collaboration with university, Federal, Tribal, and independent partners, conducts fundamental research on the distribution, vulnerability, and importance of permafrost in arctic and boreal ecosystems. Scientists, land managers, and policy makers use USGS data to help make decisions for development, wildlife habitat, and other needs. Native villages...
Authors
Mark P. Waldrop, Lesleigh Anderson, Mark Dornblaser, Li H. Erikson, Ann E. Gibbs, Nicole M. Herman-Mercer, Stephanie R. James, Miriam C. Jones, Joshua C. Koch, Mary-Cathrine Leewis, Kristen L. Manies, Burke J. Minsley, Neal J. Pastick, Vijay Patil, Frank Urban, Michelle A. Walvoord, Kimberly P. Wickland, Christian Zimmerman
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Ecosystems Land Change Science Program, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Volcano Hazards Program, Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center, Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Volcano Science Center
Coastal permafrost erosion Coastal permafrost erosion
Highlights • Since the early 2000s, erosion of permafrost coasts in the Arctic has increased at 13 of 14 sites with observational data that extend back to ca. 1960 and ca. 1980, coinciding with warming temperatures, sea ice reduction, and permafrost thaw. • Permafrost coasts along the US and Canadian Beaufort Sea experienced the largest increase in erosion rates in the Arctic, ranging...
Authors
Benjamin M. Jones, Anna M. Irrgang, Louise M. Farquharson, Hugues Lantuit, Dustin Whalen, Stanislav Ogorodov, Mikhail Grigoriev, Craig E. Tweedie, Ann E. Gibbs, Matt C Strzelecki, Alisa Baranskaya, Nataliya Belova, Anatoly Sinitsyn, Art Kroon, Alexey Maslakov, Goncalo Vieira, Guido Grosse, Paul Overduin, Ingmar Nitze, Christopher V. Maio, Jacquelyn R. Overbeck, Mette Bendixen, Piotr Zagorski, Vladimir Romanovsky
Changing storm conditions in response to projected 21st century climate change and the potential impact on an arctic barrier island–lagoon system—A pilot study for Arey Island and Lagoon, eastern Arctic Alaska Changing storm conditions in response to projected 21st century climate change and the potential impact on an arctic barrier island–lagoon system—A pilot study for Arey Island and Lagoon, eastern Arctic Alaska
Authors
Li H. Erikson, Ann E. Gibbs, Bruce M. Richmond, Curt D. Storlazzi, Benjamin M. Jones, Karin Ohman
National assessment of shoreline change — Historical shoreline change along the north coast of Alaska, Icy Cape to Cape Prince of Wales National assessment of shoreline change — Historical shoreline change along the north coast of Alaska, Icy Cape to Cape Prince of Wales
Beach erosion is a persistent problem along most open-ocean shores of the United States. Along the Arctic coast of Alaska, coastal erosion is widespread and threatens communities, defense and energy-related infrastructure, and coastal habitat. As coastal populations continue to expand and infrastructure and habitat are increasingly threatened by erosion, there is increased demand for...
Authors
Ann E. Gibbs, Alexander G. Snyder, Bruce M. Richmond
The major coral reefs of Maui Nui, Hawai‘i—distribution, physical characteristics, oceanographic controls, and environmental threats The major coral reefs of Maui Nui, Hawai‘i—distribution, physical characteristics, oceanographic controls, and environmental threats
Coral reefs are widely recognized as critical to Hawaiʻi’s economy, food resources, and protection from damaging storm waves. Yet overfishing, land-based pollution, and climate change are threatening the health and sustainability of those reefs, and accordingly, both the Federal and State governments have called for protection and effective management. In 2000, the U.S. Coral Reef Task...
Authors
Michael E. Field, Curt D. Storlazzi, Ann E. Gibbs, Nicole L. D'Antonio, Susan A. Cochran
Rigorously valuing the role of U.S. coral reefs in coastal hazard risk reduction Rigorously valuing the role of U.S. coral reefs in coastal hazard risk reduction
The degradation of coastal habitats, particularly coral reefs, raises risks by increasing the exposure of coastal communities to flooding hazards. The protective services of these natural defenses are not assessed in the same rigorous economic terms as artificial defenses, such as seawalls, and therefore often are not considered in decision making. Here we combine engineering, ecologic...
Authors
Curt D. Storlazzi, Borja G. Reguero, Aaron Cole, Erik Lowe, James B. Shope, Ann E. Gibbs, Barry A. Nickel, Robert T. McCall, Ap R. van Dongeren, Michael W. Beck
Assessing patterns of annual change to permafrost bluffs along the North Slope coast of Alaska using high-resolution imagery and elevation models Assessing patterns of annual change to permafrost bluffs along the North Slope coast of Alaska using high-resolution imagery and elevation models
Coastal permafrost bluffs at Barter Island, on the North Slope, Beaufort Sea Coast of Alaska are among the most rapidly eroding along Alaska’s coast, having retreated up to 132 m between 1955 and 2015. Here we quantify rates and patterns of change over a single year using very-high resolution orthophotomosaics and co-registered surface elevation models derived from a survey-grade form of...
Authors
Ann E. Gibbs, Matt Nolan, Bruce M. Richmond, Alexander G. Snyder, Li Erikson
Towards determining spatial methane distribution on Arctic permafrost bluffs with an unmanned aerial system Towards determining spatial methane distribution on Arctic permafrost bluffs with an unmanned aerial system
Arctic permafrost stores vast amounts of methane (CH4) in subsurface reservoirs. Thawing permafrost creates areas for this potent greenhouse gas to be released to the atmosphere. Identifying ‘hot spots’ of methane flux on a local scale has been limited by the spatial scales of traditional ground-based or satellite-based methane-sampling methods. Here we present a reliable and an easily...
Authors
Ferdinand K. J. Oberle, Ann E. Gibbs, Bruce M. Richmond, Li H. Erikson, Mark P. Waldrop, Peter W. Swarzenski
A decade of remotely sensed observations highlight complex processes linked to coastal permafrost bluff erosion in the Arctic A decade of remotely sensed observations highlight complex processes linked to coastal permafrost bluff erosion in the Arctic
Eroding permafrost coasts are indicators and integrators of changes in the Arctic System as they are susceptible to the combined effects of declining sea ice extent, increases in open water duration, more frequent and impactful storms, sea-level rise, and warming permafrost. However, few observation sites in the Arctic have yet to link decadal-scale erosion rates with changing...
Authors
Benjamin M. Jones, Louise M. Farquharson, Carson Baughman, Richard M. Buzard, Christopher D. Arp, Guido Grosse, Diana L. Bull, Frank Gunther, Ingmar Nitze, Frank Urban, Jeremy L. Kasper, Jennifer M. Frederick, Matthew A. Thomas, Craig Jones, Alejandro Mota, Scott Dallimore, Craig E. Tweedie, Christopher V. Maio, Daniel H. Mann, Bruce M. Richmond, Ann E. Gibbs, Ming Xiao, Torsten Sachs, Go Iwahana, Mikhail Z. Kanevskiy, Vladimir E. Romanovsky
National assessment of shoreline change—Summary statistics for updated vector shorelines and associated shoreline change data for the north coast of Alaska, U.S.-Canadian Border to Icy Cape National assessment of shoreline change—Summary statistics for updated vector shorelines and associated shoreline change data for the north coast of Alaska, U.S.-Canadian Border to Icy Cape
Long-term rates of shoreline change for the north coast of Alaska, from the U.S.-Canadian border to the Icy Cape region of northern Alaska, have been updated as part of the U.S. Geological Survey’s National Assessment of Shoreline Change Project. Short-term shoreline change rates are reported for the first time. Additional shoreline position data were used to compute rates where the...
Authors
Ann E. Gibbs, Bruce M. Richmond
Rigorously valuing the role of coral reefs in coastal protection: An example from Maui, Hawaii, U.S.A. Rigorously valuing the role of coral reefs in coastal protection: An example from Maui, Hawaii, U.S.A.
The degradation of coastal habitats, particularly coral reefs, raises risks by exposing communities to flooding hazards. The protective services of these natural defenses are not assessed in the same rigorous, economic terms as artificial defenses such as seawalls, and therefore often not considered in decision-making. Here we present a new methodology that combines economic, ecological...
Authors
Curt D. Storlazzi, Borja G. Reguero, Erik Lowe, James B. Shope, Ann E. Gibbs, Mike Beck, Barry A. Nickel
End of the chain? Rugosity and fine-scale bathymetry from existing underwater digital imagery using structure-from-motion (SfM) technology End of the chain? Rugosity and fine-scale bathymetry from existing underwater digital imagery using structure-from-motion (SfM) technology
The rugosity or complexity of the seafloor has been shown to be an important ecological parameter for fish, algae, and corals. Historically, rugosity has been measured either using simple and subjective manual methods such as ‘chain-and-tape’ or complicated and expensive geophysical methods. Here, we demonstrate the application of structure-from-motion (SfM) photogrammetry to generate...
Authors
Curt D. Storlazzi, Peter Dartnell, Gerry Hatcher, Ann E. Gibbs
Non-USGS Publications**
D'Antonio, N.L., and Gibbs, A.E., 2016, Still-image frame grabs and benthic habitat interpretation of underwater video footage, March 2014, Faga`alu Bay, Tutuila Island, American Samoa: U.S. Geological Survey data release, doi: 10.5066/F7N877V1.
Gibbs, A.E., and D'Antonio, N.L., 2016, Underwater video footage, March 2014, Faga`alu Bay, Tutuila Island, American Samoa: data release, doi: 10.5066/F70V89V6.
**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.
Filter Total Items: 15
Science and Products
Filter Total Items: 28
Topobathymetric digital elevation models - coastal Alaska (ver. 2.0, March 2026) Topobathymetric digital elevation models - coastal Alaska (ver. 2.0, March 2026)
This data release consists of a series of seamless topobathymetric digital elevation models (TBDEMs) for coastal Alaskan communities. Each TBDEM was assembled from best available, multi-source topographic and bathymetric elevation data collected at the time of processing. These products were created to support the development of dynamic flood models, but are also intended for reuse by...
In situ field data, Coastal Alaska, 2023 to 2025 (ver. 2.0, March 2026) In situ field data, Coastal Alaska, 2023 to 2025 (ver. 2.0, March 2026)
These field data such as first floor elevation and bathymetric surveys were collected to support development of coastal mapping products and advance storm response and recovery in Alaskan coastal communities. The data consists of essential community infrastructure elevation data to better understand flood exposure and support analysis of flood mitigation solutions, bathymetric surveys to...
Benthic habitat map of the geomorphological structure, biological cover, and geologic zonation of Olowalu reef, Maui Benthic habitat map of the geomorphological structure, biological cover, and geologic zonation of Olowalu reef, Maui
This shapefile contains habitat polygons identifying the dominant and major geomorphological structure, biological type and percent cover, and geologic zone for 11 square kilometers of Olowalu reef off west-central Maui at a minimum mapping unit of 100 square meters. Habitats were mapped with heads-up digitization using the NOAA Habitat Digitizer Extension in ArcMap (Esri, v.10.8.2)...
Nearshore wave time-series along the coast of Alaska computed with a numerical wave model Nearshore wave time-series along the coast of Alaska computed with a numerical wave model
Alaska's Arctic coast has some of the highest erosion rates in the world. Erosion in the Arctic is primarily driven by permafrost thaw and wave activity. The warming climate decreases sea ice coverage, resulting in an increase in wave energy. To overcome the lack of available observational wave data in the nearshore, waves were downscaled with a numerical wave model (SWAN) utilizing...
Swath bathymetry and acoustic-backscatter data collected in 2013 offshore Maui and Kaho`olawe, Hawaii, during field activity A-01-13-HW Swath bathymetry and acoustic-backscatter data collected in 2013 offshore Maui and Kaho`olawe, Hawaii, during field activity A-01-13-HW
Bathymetry and acoustic-backscatter data were collected during a February 2013 SWATHPlus survey offshore of the Hawaiian islands of Maui and Kaho`olawe (field activity number A-01-13-HW). The data are provided as 1-meter resolution GeoTIFF files.
Alaska coastal orthoimagery and elevation data: Icy Cape to Cape Prince of Wales, 2016 Alaska coastal orthoimagery and elevation data: Icy Cape to Cape Prince of Wales, 2016
This data release presents orthoimagery and elevation data based on aerial imagery of the Alaska coastline between Icy Cape and Cape Prince of Wales. These data products and the source aerial imagery were generated by Fairbanks Fodar for the U.S. Geological Survey. Aerial imagery was collected in 2016 between August 29 and September 4 and extends from the shoreline to 400-4000 meters...
Historical shorelines and morphological metrics for barrier islands and spits along the north coast of Alaska between Cape Beaufort and the U.S.-Canadian border, 1947 to 2019 Historical shorelines and morphological metrics for barrier islands and spits along the north coast of Alaska between Cape Beaufort and the U.S.-Canadian border, 1947 to 2019
A suite of morphological metrics were derived from existing shoreline and elevation datasets for barrier islands and spits located along the north-slope coast of Alaska between Cape Beaufort and the U.S.-Canadian border. This dataset includes barrier shorelines and polygons attributed with morphological metrics from five time periods: 1950s, 1980s, 2000s, 2010s, and 2020s.
Nearshore bathymetry data from the Unalakleet River mouth, Alaska, 2019 Nearshore bathymetry data from the Unalakleet River mouth, Alaska, 2019
This data release presents nearshore bathymetry data collected at the mouth of the Unalakleet River in Alaska, near the city of Unalakleet. The data were collected in August 2019 by the U.S. Geological Survey, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center. Nearshore bathymetry was measured along survey lines from the shore to a depth of approximately -7.4 m NAVD88 and in a portion of the...
A GIS compilation of vector shorelines and coastal bluff edge positions, and associated rate-of-change data for Barter Island, Alaska A GIS compilation of vector shorelines and coastal bluff edge positions, and associated rate-of-change data for Barter Island, Alaska
This dataset consists of rate-of-change statistics for the coastal bluffs and shorelines at Barter Island, Alaska, for the time period 1947 to 2020. Rate calculations were computed within a GIS using the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) version 5.0, an ArcGIS extension developed by the U.S. Geological Survey. A reference baseline was used as the originating point for the...
Modeled 21st century storm surge, waves, and coastal flood hazards and supporting oceanographic and geological field data (2010 and 2011) for Arey and Barter Islands, Alaska and vicinity Modeled 21st century storm surge, waves, and coastal flood hazards and supporting oceanographic and geological field data (2010 and 2011) for Arey and Barter Islands, Alaska and vicinity
Changes in Arctic coastal ecosystems in response to global warming may be some of the most severe on the planet. A better understanding and analysis of the rates at which these changes are expected to occur over the coming decades is crucial in order to delineate high-priority areas that are likely to be affected by climate changes. The data provided in this release are part of a study...
National assessment of shoreline change: A GIS compilation of vector shorelines and associated shoreline change data for the north coast of Alaska, Icy Cape to Cape Prince of Wales National assessment of shoreline change: A GIS compilation of vector shorelines and associated shoreline change data for the north coast of Alaska, Icy Cape to Cape Prince of Wales
Beach erosion is a persistent problem along most open-ocean shores of the United States. Along the Arctic coast of Alaska, coastal erosion is widespread and threatens communities, defense and energy-related infrastructure, and coastal habitat. As coastal populations continue to expand and infrastructure and habitat are increasingly threatened by erosion, there is increased demand for...
Projected flooding extents and depths based on 10-, 50-, 100-, and 500-year wave-energy return periods, with and without coral reefs, for the States of Hawaii and Florida, the Territories of Guam, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Projected flooding extents and depths based on 10-, 50-, 100-, and 500-year wave-energy return periods, with and without coral reefs, for the States of Hawaii and Florida, the Territories of Guam, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands,
This data release provides flooding extent polygons (flood masks) and depth values (flood points) based on wave-driven total water levels for 22 locations within the States of Hawaii and Florida, the Territories of Guam, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. For each of the 22 locations there are eight associated...
Filter Total Items: 48
USGS permafrost research determines the risks of permafrost thaw to biologic and hydrologic resources USGS permafrost research determines the risks of permafrost thaw to biologic and hydrologic resources
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in collaboration with university, Federal, Tribal, and independent partners, conducts fundamental research on the distribution, vulnerability, and importance of permafrost in arctic and boreal ecosystems. Scientists, land managers, and policy makers use USGS data to help make decisions for development, wildlife habitat, and other needs. Native villages...
Authors
Mark P. Waldrop, Lesleigh Anderson, Mark Dornblaser, Li H. Erikson, Ann E. Gibbs, Nicole M. Herman-Mercer, Stephanie R. James, Miriam C. Jones, Joshua C. Koch, Mary-Cathrine Leewis, Kristen L. Manies, Burke J. Minsley, Neal J. Pastick, Vijay Patil, Frank Urban, Michelle A. Walvoord, Kimberly P. Wickland, Christian Zimmerman
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Water Resources Mission Area, Ecosystems Land Change Science Program, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Volcano Hazards Program, Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center, Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Volcano Science Center
Coastal permafrost erosion Coastal permafrost erosion
Highlights • Since the early 2000s, erosion of permafrost coasts in the Arctic has increased at 13 of 14 sites with observational data that extend back to ca. 1960 and ca. 1980, coinciding with warming temperatures, sea ice reduction, and permafrost thaw. • Permafrost coasts along the US and Canadian Beaufort Sea experienced the largest increase in erosion rates in the Arctic, ranging...
Authors
Benjamin M. Jones, Anna M. Irrgang, Louise M. Farquharson, Hugues Lantuit, Dustin Whalen, Stanislav Ogorodov, Mikhail Grigoriev, Craig E. Tweedie, Ann E. Gibbs, Matt C Strzelecki, Alisa Baranskaya, Nataliya Belova, Anatoly Sinitsyn, Art Kroon, Alexey Maslakov, Goncalo Vieira, Guido Grosse, Paul Overduin, Ingmar Nitze, Christopher V. Maio, Jacquelyn R. Overbeck, Mette Bendixen, Piotr Zagorski, Vladimir Romanovsky
Changing storm conditions in response to projected 21st century climate change and the potential impact on an arctic barrier island–lagoon system—A pilot study for Arey Island and Lagoon, eastern Arctic Alaska Changing storm conditions in response to projected 21st century climate change and the potential impact on an arctic barrier island–lagoon system—A pilot study for Arey Island and Lagoon, eastern Arctic Alaska
Authors
Li H. Erikson, Ann E. Gibbs, Bruce M. Richmond, Curt D. Storlazzi, Benjamin M. Jones, Karin Ohman
National assessment of shoreline change — Historical shoreline change along the north coast of Alaska, Icy Cape to Cape Prince of Wales National assessment of shoreline change — Historical shoreline change along the north coast of Alaska, Icy Cape to Cape Prince of Wales
Beach erosion is a persistent problem along most open-ocean shores of the United States. Along the Arctic coast of Alaska, coastal erosion is widespread and threatens communities, defense and energy-related infrastructure, and coastal habitat. As coastal populations continue to expand and infrastructure and habitat are increasingly threatened by erosion, there is increased demand for...
Authors
Ann E. Gibbs, Alexander G. Snyder, Bruce M. Richmond
The major coral reefs of Maui Nui, Hawai‘i—distribution, physical characteristics, oceanographic controls, and environmental threats The major coral reefs of Maui Nui, Hawai‘i—distribution, physical characteristics, oceanographic controls, and environmental threats
Coral reefs are widely recognized as critical to Hawaiʻi’s economy, food resources, and protection from damaging storm waves. Yet overfishing, land-based pollution, and climate change are threatening the health and sustainability of those reefs, and accordingly, both the Federal and State governments have called for protection and effective management. In 2000, the U.S. Coral Reef Task...
Authors
Michael E. Field, Curt D. Storlazzi, Ann E. Gibbs, Nicole L. D'Antonio, Susan A. Cochran
Rigorously valuing the role of U.S. coral reefs in coastal hazard risk reduction Rigorously valuing the role of U.S. coral reefs in coastal hazard risk reduction
The degradation of coastal habitats, particularly coral reefs, raises risks by increasing the exposure of coastal communities to flooding hazards. The protective services of these natural defenses are not assessed in the same rigorous economic terms as artificial defenses, such as seawalls, and therefore often are not considered in decision making. Here we combine engineering, ecologic...
Authors
Curt D. Storlazzi, Borja G. Reguero, Aaron Cole, Erik Lowe, James B. Shope, Ann E. Gibbs, Barry A. Nickel, Robert T. McCall, Ap R. van Dongeren, Michael W. Beck
Assessing patterns of annual change to permafrost bluffs along the North Slope coast of Alaska using high-resolution imagery and elevation models Assessing patterns of annual change to permafrost bluffs along the North Slope coast of Alaska using high-resolution imagery and elevation models
Coastal permafrost bluffs at Barter Island, on the North Slope, Beaufort Sea Coast of Alaska are among the most rapidly eroding along Alaska’s coast, having retreated up to 132 m between 1955 and 2015. Here we quantify rates and patterns of change over a single year using very-high resolution orthophotomosaics and co-registered surface elevation models derived from a survey-grade form of...
Authors
Ann E. Gibbs, Matt Nolan, Bruce M. Richmond, Alexander G. Snyder, Li Erikson
Towards determining spatial methane distribution on Arctic permafrost bluffs with an unmanned aerial system Towards determining spatial methane distribution on Arctic permafrost bluffs with an unmanned aerial system
Arctic permafrost stores vast amounts of methane (CH4) in subsurface reservoirs. Thawing permafrost creates areas for this potent greenhouse gas to be released to the atmosphere. Identifying ‘hot spots’ of methane flux on a local scale has been limited by the spatial scales of traditional ground-based or satellite-based methane-sampling methods. Here we present a reliable and an easily...
Authors
Ferdinand K. J. Oberle, Ann E. Gibbs, Bruce M. Richmond, Li H. Erikson, Mark P. Waldrop, Peter W. Swarzenski
A decade of remotely sensed observations highlight complex processes linked to coastal permafrost bluff erosion in the Arctic A decade of remotely sensed observations highlight complex processes linked to coastal permafrost bluff erosion in the Arctic
Eroding permafrost coasts are indicators and integrators of changes in the Arctic System as they are susceptible to the combined effects of declining sea ice extent, increases in open water duration, more frequent and impactful storms, sea-level rise, and warming permafrost. However, few observation sites in the Arctic have yet to link decadal-scale erosion rates with changing...
Authors
Benjamin M. Jones, Louise M. Farquharson, Carson Baughman, Richard M. Buzard, Christopher D. Arp, Guido Grosse, Diana L. Bull, Frank Gunther, Ingmar Nitze, Frank Urban, Jeremy L. Kasper, Jennifer M. Frederick, Matthew A. Thomas, Craig Jones, Alejandro Mota, Scott Dallimore, Craig E. Tweedie, Christopher V. Maio, Daniel H. Mann, Bruce M. Richmond, Ann E. Gibbs, Ming Xiao, Torsten Sachs, Go Iwahana, Mikhail Z. Kanevskiy, Vladimir E. Romanovsky
National assessment of shoreline change—Summary statistics for updated vector shorelines and associated shoreline change data for the north coast of Alaska, U.S.-Canadian Border to Icy Cape National assessment of shoreline change—Summary statistics for updated vector shorelines and associated shoreline change data for the north coast of Alaska, U.S.-Canadian Border to Icy Cape
Long-term rates of shoreline change for the north coast of Alaska, from the U.S.-Canadian border to the Icy Cape region of northern Alaska, have been updated as part of the U.S. Geological Survey’s National Assessment of Shoreline Change Project. Short-term shoreline change rates are reported for the first time. Additional shoreline position data were used to compute rates where the...
Authors
Ann E. Gibbs, Bruce M. Richmond
Rigorously valuing the role of coral reefs in coastal protection: An example from Maui, Hawaii, U.S.A. Rigorously valuing the role of coral reefs in coastal protection: An example from Maui, Hawaii, U.S.A.
The degradation of coastal habitats, particularly coral reefs, raises risks by exposing communities to flooding hazards. The protective services of these natural defenses are not assessed in the same rigorous, economic terms as artificial defenses such as seawalls, and therefore often not considered in decision-making. Here we present a new methodology that combines economic, ecological...
Authors
Curt D. Storlazzi, Borja G. Reguero, Erik Lowe, James B. Shope, Ann E. Gibbs, Mike Beck, Barry A. Nickel
End of the chain? Rugosity and fine-scale bathymetry from existing underwater digital imagery using structure-from-motion (SfM) technology End of the chain? Rugosity and fine-scale bathymetry from existing underwater digital imagery using structure-from-motion (SfM) technology
The rugosity or complexity of the seafloor has been shown to be an important ecological parameter for fish, algae, and corals. Historically, rugosity has been measured either using simple and subjective manual methods such as ‘chain-and-tape’ or complicated and expensive geophysical methods. Here, we demonstrate the application of structure-from-motion (SfM) photogrammetry to generate...
Authors
Curt D. Storlazzi, Peter Dartnell, Gerry Hatcher, Ann E. Gibbs
Non-USGS Publications**
D'Antonio, N.L., and Gibbs, A.E., 2016, Still-image frame grabs and benthic habitat interpretation of underwater video footage, March 2014, Faga`alu Bay, Tutuila Island, American Samoa: U.S. Geological Survey data release, doi: 10.5066/F7N877V1.
Gibbs, A.E., and D'Antonio, N.L., 2016, Underwater video footage, March 2014, Faga`alu Bay, Tutuila Island, American Samoa: data release, doi: 10.5066/F70V89V6.
**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.
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