MSI Public Lecture Series

Widespread and profound changes have been observed in the Arctic during recent decades.  These changes include melting of ice stocks on land and sea, increases in river discharge, and shifting precipitation patterns.  Computer models suggest that increasing flow of freshwater into the northern North Atlantic Ocean have the potential to rapidly alter global climate through effects on ocean circulation.  The predicted changes in climate would have significant social and economic implications.  For example, rapid changes in temperature and rainfall patterns would present unique challenges to agricultural practices that have developed within a relatively stable climate regime over the past 8000 years.  Dr. McClelland will review the observed changes in freshwater sources to the northern North Atlantic Ocean, including contributions from the Arctic, and discuss these results and how they contribute to computer models for predicting the global climate. 

Dr. Jim McClelland is an assistant professor at the University of Texas Marine Science Institute.  His research interests are land-sea coupling, coastal ecosystem dymamics, and biogeochemistry.  To learn more about his research visit:  http://www.utmsi.utexas.edu/staff/mcclelland.htm