A First Attempt at Reconstructing Past Forest Fires in the Caucasus by Exploring Trace Elements in Ice Cores

Abstract ID: 3.13846 | Not reviewed | Requested as: Talk | TBA | TBA

Maria Vinogradova (1)
Mstislav, Vorobyev (2)

(1) Institute of geography of Russian academy of sciences, Staromonetny lane, 119017 Moscow, RU
(2) Institute of geography of Russian academy of sciences, Staromonetny lane, 119017, Moscow, Russia, RU

Categories: Atmosphere, Forest, Snow & Ice
Keywords: ice core, trace elements, ICP MS, forest fire, Caucasus

Categories: Atmosphere, Forest, Snow & Ice
Keywords: ice core, trace elements, ICP MS, forest fire, Caucasus

Abstract

The Caucasus region, characterized by diverse ecosystems and climatic variability, has experienced significant wildfire activity over centuries. Understanding past fire regimes is crucial for assessing climate-fire interactions and predicting future risks. This study aims to reconstruct historical forest fire occurrences in the Caucasus by analyzing trace element concentrations in ice cores from high-altitude glaciers. Key chemical markers such as black carbon, ammonium (NH₄⁺), potassium (K), and levoglucosan serve as indicators of biomass burning, while elements like vanadium (V) and nickel (Ni) help distinguish natural fires from anthropogenic influences. By integrating these chemical signatures with dating and atmospheric transport models, we can establish a timeline of fire events and assess their correlation with climatic shifts and human activity. The findings will provide valuable insights into the region’s fire history, environmental changes, and future wildfire trends.