Developing an Ice Conditions Index for Great Lakes Mariners

The Arctic Domain Awareness Center, a U.S. Department of Homeland Security Center of Excellence in Maritime Research hosted by the University of Alaska, is advancing research in support of a Ice Conditions Index for Great Lakes Mariners. In collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guard and others, research team is developing an Ice Condition Index (ICECON) for the Great Lakes. The forecast index is up to 120 hours into the future making use of data from circulation and ice models developed by National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL). 

ICECON now-casts and forecasts will account for Icebreaker activity and its impact on overall ICECON. In parallel with the development of ICECON, the research will identify and adopt a vessel classification system, which will define a number of vessel classes and the ice-capability of ships in those classes (in terms of ICECON). Research team is developing an Ice Condition Index (ICECON) for the Great Lakes first, then onwards to the Arctic. ADAC seeks to transition this project to the U.S. National Ice Center to support their ice forecasts to operational centers such as USCG D1 D9 and D17.

This research endeavor is being Co-investigated by Dr. Tom Ravens at University of Alaska Anchorage and Dr. Andy Mahoney at University of Alaska Fairbanks. Attached is a short video that highlights the research work: https://youtu.be/7KzPNRJBePg Warmest wishes and v/r, Church