In the Arctic regions where there is permanently frozen ground -- "permafrost" --
work is usually confined to the winter months. In winter movement across the frozen and snow-covered tundra is easier than in summer and causes negligible damage to the surface. In summer the top foot or so of tundra thaws, hampering movement and permitting considerable damage to be done by virtue of the vehicles sinking in the mud and disturbing the tundra cover. All equipment is mounted on tracked vehicles and the trailer camp is either track-or skid-mounted. The camp is moved every few days to keep up with the work and reduce travelling over the frozen tundra to a minimum. All supplies are brought to the party by air and a helicopter is used for personnel movement in the field. Working conditions are very severe with temperatures down to -40°F not uncommon.