1. Rebecca Youens Balfron High School
Shelagh Hansom
Dunblane High School
Session 2005/6

2. Developments in the Tundra
Modern developments in the tundra areas
include oil and mineral exploration in
Alaska. Such developments increase the
rate of change for the indigenous people.
There are also concerns that modern
developments can have a harmful affect
on the environment. Although some might
oppose changes, others feel that they bring
good economic results (jobs and money).

3. In 1968 the largest known deposits of oil and
gas in North America were discovered in the
north of Alaska near to Prudhoe Bay.
However, before development and
extraction could take place the mining
companies had to overcome a number of
problems.

6. Problems facing oil extraction in Alaska
Temperatures of -50°C makes it hard to keep oil flowing. Harsh working conditions for people.
The pipe can’t go underground because of permafrost.
Ground is unstable in summer when the surface layer thaws.
Pipeline had to go over 3 mountain ranges
The southern area is a major earthquake zone
Tundra ecosystem is very fragile.
Crosses caribou migration routes and near breeding ground
Might affect habitats of bears , wolves and other animals
Major threat of oil spills