Eolian Deposits of Alaska

Abstract

Based on the author's visit of the major areas of eolian (wind) deposits of Alaska and on published and unpublished information from other workers (whose areas of detailed studies are indicated on map 2). Author notes that only a small proportion of the eolian deposits can be shown on map (1) due to complexities caused by vegetation, reworking of streams, frost action, etc., which tend to obliterate or remove the deposits. Three major groups of eolian deposits (of Pleistocene to Recent age) are dealt with: those of the coastal plain of northern Alaska, the areas associated with glacial streams and the coastal margins. The extent, size, morphology, probable genesis and subsequent changes of the deposits are discussed, together with their character, composition, age, etc. A brief account of ash deposits concludes the paper. Bibliography (about 40 items).