Late Quaternary Glacier and Climate Change in the Northeastern Great Basin
Abstract
This thesis presents a cosmogenic 10Be exposure chronology for glacial moraines within the Baker Creek valley alongside water balance and climate modeling of Pluvial Lakes Franklin and Clover. These records further limit glacial extents and climate conditions within the Great Basin from the LGM (Last Glacial Maximum) through the subsequent deglaciation. Additionally, this thesis presents UAS-based photogrammetric analysis of the Wheeler Peak rock glacier, a modern periglacial feature in Nevada’s Great Basin National park. Assessment of the volume, motion, and stability of rock glacier features is of paramount importance within the Great Basin as they are valuable hydrologic resources. Glacial moraine ages and modeled paleoclimate conditions are broadly consistent with previously published records, and through analysis of UAS-based photogrammetry, a framework for continued surveying of the Wheeler Peak rock glacier has been established.