Reindeers have a great impact on vegetation composition and functioning in large regions of the northern high latitudes. Their effect on ground albedo, i.e. the ratio of reflected to incoming solar radiation, is of particular importance for the surface energy balance and climate. I will present results from the fieldwork last summer to areas in Svalbard and mainland Norway, where we collected ground observations from a range of vegetation types under different reindeer grazing regimes. Emphasis is put on the effect of ground lichen, which contribute to some of the highest albedo values from snow-free ground. Furthermore, the albedo properties will be viewed in light of other relevant vegetation-climate interactions.
Here you will find a link to the pdf presentation by Eirik, as well as a recording of the Zoom webinar.