Alaska’s largest population center, Anchorage, receives 80% of its freshwater and 10–20% of its electricity (hydropower generated) from the glaciated Eklutna basin. As with nearly all glaciers in Alaska, the Eklutna Glacier is rapidly melting as the result of a regional warming trend.
This study aims to improve our understanding of the processes affecting the mass balance (precipitation versus melt) of the Eklutna Glacier. Understanding these driving forces is vital, as this glacier’s runoff serves as an important water resource for the Anchorage area.