DUNE FIELDS | High Latitudes

Abstract

High-latitude dune fields are widespread throughout northern North America, Europe, and Russia. Although most dune fields are presently stabilized, many were active during the late glacial periods (Late Wisconsin of North America and Late Weichselian of Europe), soon after ice retreat and deposition of sandy source sediment, and continuing into the early Holocene. Sporadic mid-to-late Holocene dune activity has occurred as a result of changing climatic and geomorphic conditions, as well as localized disturbances by fire, animals, or human activity. High-latitude dune fields are small compared to more southerly dune fields, owing to the finite supplies of sandy source deposits derived mostly from glacigenic sediments. The most pervasive dune type in high latitudes is the parabolic dune, although transverse, longitudinal, and, more rarely, barchanoid dunes also occur. Blowouts are common where eolian activity is restricted to localized areas. High-latitude dunes are instructive with respect to paleoenvironments, as their morphology and stratigraphy may be used to determine past wind directions and regional circulation patterns. Episodes of past dune activity are also informative, as they may be linked to periods of low vegetation cover or increased sediment input tied to abrupt changes in climate, sedimentary processes, or other disturbances.