Arctic Operational Information and Forecasting Systems

Abstract

To many, the popular concept of the Arctic is one of barren wasteland with a harsh winter climate. Figure 1 is an example of this cold climate as it produces ice on the foredeck of a Canadian icebreaker. Although this harsh climate, where man may be loath to venture outdoors, prevails for the long winter, there is another side to the Arctic. For about two brief summer months, climatic conditions approach those of the temperate zones. For this short summer growing season with its long days, it is possible to grow fine examples of a number of our common vegetables, and, incidentally, some of the world’s largest and most ferocious mosquitoes and black flies.