Mast Foundations and Thermal Ground Monitoring in Permafrost

Ketil Isaksen from the Norwegian Meteorological Institute approached Kolibri Geo Services with a recurring problem: 10-metre meteorological masts anchored at the surface were becoming unstable over time due to increased thawing of the active layer in permafrost. To ensure long-term structural stability, the new masts would need to be securely anchored deep into frozen ground.

In addition to installing the mast foundation, the project required a 30-metre-deep borehole for thermal ground investigations. This well would be instrumented to monitor subsurface temperatures over time, helping to track permafrost dynamics and their impact on local climate, infrastructure, and ground stability.

Kolibri proposed a custom solution using cemented pillar foundations anchored deep into the permafrost to provide long-term stability for the mast. We also drilled the 30-metre borehole, and designed and delivered all protective systems required to shield both the instruments and the borehole from harsh weather and wildlife, including polar bears.

What made this project particularly complex was the scale and logistics. The borehole sites were spread across Svalbard, including remote and difficult-to-reach areas. Kolibri helped plan, coordinate, and execute operations using a combination of ships, helicopters, and tracked vehicles—carefully managing access, timing, and field safety in every location.

This project demonstrates Kolibri’s strength not only in field operations, but in designing long-lasting, site-specific solutions that combine scientific goals with Arctic realities.