2017 Map of Ikpikpuk River D-4 NE

About this map

The Titaluk River winds through the southeastern corner of this North Slope landscape, carving a distinct hydrological pattern across the Arctic coastal plain. This 2017 survey reveals an environment dominated by an intricate network of thermokarst lakes and ponded water, reflecting the unique permafrost-driven geography of the region. The map captures the sheer density of these water bodies, which vary from small circular pools to larger, irregular basins that shift as the underlying ground freezes and thaws. Unlike the more developed regions of the south, this area is defined by its lack of permanent settlements or infrastructure, providing a clear record of the untouched drainage systems within the Ikpikpuk River watershed. The vast expanse shown here represents a critical look at the topographic character of the northern tundra as it existed in the early 21st century.