Continuing Operations Proposal: The Polar Rock Repository as a Resource for Earth Systems Science

The Polar Rock Repository (PRR) was established to curate and loan geologic samples from polar regions to researchers and educators. OPP established the PRR in part to avoid redundant sample collection and thus reduce the environmental impact of polar research. The PRR also provides the research community with an important resource for developing new research projects. The PRR acquires rock collections through donations from institutions and scientists and makes these samples available as no-cost loans for research, education and museum exhibits. Sample metadata are available in an on-line database. The database also includes rock property information useful for geophysical studies. Researchers may request samples for analysis using an online request form. The PRR fulfills several data management directives, including the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research, Antarctic Data Management directive of providing free, full and open access to both metadata and the samples.