Abstract ATM-9414733 Baker, Paul A. Duke University Title: SGER: Paleoclimatic Research in Lake Titicaca This award is in support of a Small Grant for Exploratory Research (SGER). Lake Titicaca (Peru/Bolivia) may contain the most important sedimentary record of Quaternary climatic change in tropical South America. Previous paleoclimatic studies in the lake have only involved analysis of shallow-water cores. This is because the recovery of sediments from central, portions of the lake is a major undertaking, involving a sufficiently large vessel for the rough sea conditions of the lake. Extensive seismic reflection profiling should also be done as part of this study as an aid to core site selection and as a means for identification of hiatuses and sedimentary facies. Prior to requesting funds for a major expedition to Lake Titicaca, it is appropriate and prudent to make personal contact with government officials and scientists in Peru and Bolivia to ensure the success of future research efforts. This award supports travel to Peru and Bolivia in order to: (1) contact government officials to obtain assurances that research cruises will be approved; (2) communicate personally with South American scientific colleagues to ensure that they will be properly involved in this research; and (3) determine the availability of technical facilities and supplies.
