Historical Developments of Polar Pedology and the Major Contributions of Kaye Ronald Everett

Abstract

For more than three decades Kaye Everett conducted research on pedology, hydrology, geology, and ecology in virtually all major polar regions of the globe. A summary of the historical developments in polar pedology and Everett's major pedological accomplishments collectively serve as an appropriate tribute to this outstanding polar scientist. Building on early work by Russian pedologists, investigation of polar soils began in earnest following World War II. Differing national and individual soil classifications emerged and efforts to unify them continue to the present. Everett's early studies in both hemispheres reinforced the concepts that pedogenic gradients existed. He demonstrated a climatic gradient of soil processes and distribution in the Arctic with calcification diminishing and alkali processes increasing in a northward direction. Starting in the early 1970s Everett applied his interests in soil morphology, genesis, mapping, and classification to geobotanical landscape approaches in arctic Alaska. Working closely with other ecologists, these approaches resulted in a series of geobotanical and terrain sensitivity studies and publications related to both ecosystem function and response of tundra to impacts of resource development. More recent investigations focused on the transport of air- and waterborne nutrients in arctic watersheds. Specific results of Everett's own research and his collaboration with American and Russian colleagues are discussed.