Green Lakes Valley
Mean temperatures and precipitation are based on meteorological data collected from 1950-1970 at Niwot Ridge (3750m) (Barry, 1973).
Green Lakes Valley
Area: 2.3233 km2
Minimum Elevation: 3567m
Maximum Elevation: 4024m
Average Elevation: 3745m
Green Lakes Valley (GLV) is located in the upper catchment of Boulder Creek (above 3200m) and lies within the City of Boulder Watershed. GLV is part of the Niwot Ridge Long Term Ecological Research (LTER), where snow studies, geomorphic processes and hydrologic research had been conducted since 1981. The site receives about 1000mm of precipitation, with 80% occurring as snow (Caine, 1996). GLV consists of two distinct basins, separated by a 90m glaciated valley-step. The upper basin is mostly alpine tundra environment, with 29% covered by vegetated soils. It has mostly steep rock walls and talus slopes and permanent snowfields. The Arikaree Glacier sits in the head of the valley and is the source of North Boulder Creek. The lower GLV has less exposed bedrock, fewer talus slopes, more extensive soil and vegetation cover.
Based on meteorological data collected on the ridge top of GLV, the mean average temperature is -3.70C. The valley floor is less windy and exposed with more snow accumulation compared to the surrounding ridges. Also, it was last scoured by glaciers about 18000 years ago and subsequently has an immature and truncated Critical Zone.
Green Lakes Valley Map
Click on the radio button to view the Green lakes Valley study area.
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View the Green Lakes Valley area.
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