Stordalen Mire: Active Layer and Water Table Depths (2003-2017)

From 2003 to 2017, this dataset contains manual measurements of active layer depth and water table depth from three distinct autochamber sites (Palsa, Sphagnum, Eriophorum) within the Stordalen Mire in northern Sweden. Measurements are recorded in centimeters relative to the peat surface, with supporting visual notes detailing site locations. The data was collected as part of the IsoGenie Project and related initiatives, funded by multiple international research agencies.

Use Cases

• Modeling peatland methane flux based on water table depth and active layer thickness.
• Analyzing seasonal and interannual thaw dynamics across different microtopographic sites (Dry, Mesic, Wet).
• Calibrating remote sensing products for active layer depth using ground-truth measurements.
• Studying the hydrological controls on vegetation communities (Palsa, Sphagnum, Eriophorum) in a subarctic mire.

Strengths

• Provides a 15-year time series (2003-2017) of manual field measurements.
• Includes detailed visual documentation (maps and notes) of specific measurement site locations.
• Data is associated with major, well-funded research projects (IsoGenie, EMERGE, SITES).

Limitations

• Column names and the exact number of data rows are not specified in the available metadata.
• The dataset's last update date is unknown, limiting assessment of its current status.
• Some water table measurements are blank where no water table was observed, which may require careful handling in analysis.

Provenance

Source

Patrick Crill, Stockholm University, with work conducted at the Abisko Scientific Research Station.

Collection Method

Manual field measurements: active layer depth measured with a metal rod, water table depth measured in wells.

Time Range

2003 to 2017

Geography

Stordalen Mire, northern Sweden