TRITIUM-HE-3 AGES OF DEEP WATERS IN THE NEW POLYNYA

The measurements of tritium and helium isotopes in the Northeast Water (NEW) Polynya region in the summer of 1992 and 1993 show that the dee p waters in the north (Westwind Trough) are 3-5 years older than those in the south (Belgica Trough). The distribution of these tracers in t he region indicates that a deep 'flushing' event took place between th e 1992 and 1993 field studies. This result corroborates information ob tained by others from hydrographic data and from year-long bottom-moor ed current meters.