| Abstract | The Canadian Ice Regime System takes into account the decay of sea ice by allowing the addition of +1 to the Ice Multiplier for ice that is deemed to be decayed. The AIRSS definition of decay relates to the surface properties of the ice such that decayed ice is defined as ice that has thaw holes or is at the "rotten" stage. This report examines this approach based on an analysis of the strength of first-year sea ice, second-year sea ice, multi-year sea ice, and the damage statistics for Arctic vessels. The analysis shows that there is no quantitative scientific basis for the current AIRSS approach of taking into account the decay of sea ice in the Ice Regime System. The analysis further shows that the decay of sea ice can be quantified in a meaningful manner. The report provides a detailed discussion of the analysis with recommendations for modifying AIRSS to account for the decay of sea ice. |
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